If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that brings the restaurant experience into your kitchen, look no further than this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This dish embodies indulgence and satisfaction with every bite, showcasing tender, juicy chicken breasts enveloped in a crunchy, flavorful parmesan and panko crust. What makes it truly special is the layer of melted provolone and the creamy ranch topping, which elevates the flavors into something truly divine. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy night in or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this easy chicken recipe checks all the boxes.

The appeal of this dish lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, while still feeling gourmet enough to serve at a dinner party. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch paired with juicy chicken and a hint of creaminess that leaves your taste buds dancing. If you’ve been dreaming of whipping up a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle of dining out, this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the answer.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that balances ease and taste, ensuring that dinner will be a highlight of your day. You’ll learn how to transform basic chicken breasts into a gourmet experience, bringing a touch of restaurant elegance to your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Simple Preparation: Effortlessly bring together easily accessible ingredients for a delectable meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of parmesan, provolone, and ranch creates a flavor-packed experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
Versatile Serving: Perfect for any occasion — weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or date nights.
Quick Cooking Time: With a total time of just 45 minutes, you’ll have a gourmet dish ready to enjoy in no time.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, preparation is key to ensure everything goes smoothly. Start by gathering all your ingredients, which include chicken breasts, seasonings, cheeses, and optional garnishes. You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife for the preliminary steps. It’s recommended to have a meat mallet handy for pounding the chicken evenly, which ensures consistently cooked meat. In terms of cookware, a large skillet is essential for searing, and a baking sheet is necessary for transferring the chicken for baking. Lastly, a couple of mixing bowls will be useful for blending the ranch and cream cheese and for combining the panko with parmesan. This organized approach will set you up for success and allow you to enjoy the cooking process.

Ingredients

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons ranch dressing or 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by placing your chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is crucial as it ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, preventing dryness. Once pounded, season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side for about 4–5 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. After cooking, transfer the chicken to a lined baking sheet, preparing it for the next flavorful steps.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and mayonnaise (if using). Use a whisk or spatula to mix until smooth and creamy. This ranch-cream cheese mixture will not only add flavor but also moisture to the chicken, creating a deliciously rich layer on top.

Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping

In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese. For added crunch, toast this mixture in a dry skillet over low heat for about 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Once toasted, remove from the heat and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Spread a generous layer of the ranch-cream cheese mixture over the top of each chicken breast, making sure it covers the surface evenly. Next, add a handful of shredded provolone cheese atop each piece of chicken, followed by a sprinkling of the toasted parmesan-panko mixture. This layering is what gives the dish its signature crispy crust and cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, slide the baking sheet with the prepared chicken into the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles enticingly. For an extra golden top, finish by broiling for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender bites. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations

Protein: Substitute with thinly slices pork chops or turkey cutlets for a different protein option.
Vegetables: Add a layer of sliced tomatoes or spinach underneath the cheese for a healthier twist.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
For extra crunch, always toast your panko breadcrumbs before adding them to the crust mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Tips

Always pound the chicken evenly to promote uniform cooking and moisture retention.
If you prefer a kick of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoned topping.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 470
Protein: 38g
Sodium: 640mg

FAQs

What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple salad for a refreshing contrast.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and the toppings ahead of time, refrigerate them separately, and bake when you’re ready to serve.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain the crust’s crispiness.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute provolone with mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles.

Conclusion

This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with flavors that mirror the restaurant experience right at home. Each juicy bite is an indulgent treat, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether cooked for a loved one or simply enjoyed yourself, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how your own version turned out. Happy cooking!