How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in 5 Easy Steps

Introduction

Craving a dish that tastes like it’s straight from a steakhouse but comes together in your kitchen in under 30 minutes? Meet Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken —a golden, crispy, cheesy masterpiece that’s about to become your new weeknight hero. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy ranch-infused crust, baked to perfection with a satisfying crunch. This recipe was inspired by a reader’s story about recreating their favorite restaurant dish at home after a $20 steakhouse splurge 1. Spoiler alert: This version tastes even better than the original—and costs half the price!

If you loved our viral Garlic Butter Herb Chicken , you’ll adore this elevated twist. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet fancy enough to impress dinner guests. Plus, the whole family will cheer when they see that cheesy, garlicky topping 7. Ready to ditch the takeout menus and become the kitchen MVP? Let’s dive into this cheesy, crunchy, flavor-packed adventure!

What is Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Ever wondered how a dish gets a name like Longhorn ? Is it because the chicken’s crust is as bold as a Texas cattle drive? Or maybe because it’s so crave-worthy, it’ll make you want to “round up” seconds? While the origin story is delightfully fuzzy, one thing’s clear: This recipe is a love letter to Parmesan cheese and crispy textures. Picture this: A juicy chicken breast coated in a mix of ranch dressing, garlic, and buttery panko crumbs, then crowned with a mountain of melted Parmesan 3. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug.

As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” —but let’s be real, this dish wins over everyone . Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or date night, this recipe is your secret weapon. Ready to claim your title as kitchen legend? Grab your apron and let’s get cheesy!

Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Crispy, Creamy Perfection : The star here is the Parmesan crust —crunchy panko meets nutty Parmesan and zesty ranch, creating a flavor explosion in every bite 5.
2. Budget-Friendly : Skip the 20steakhousemarkup!Thisrecipecostsunder10 to make and tastes like a million bucks 10.
3. Family-Approved : Even veggie-averse kids will devour this chicken. Serve it with a side of roasted broccoli, and watch it disappear.

Compared to our Honey Mustard Chicken , this dish leans into savory, cheesy goodness rather than sweet tang. Both are crowd-pleasers, but if you’re craving something rich and indulgent, this is your winner. Don’t just take our word for it—try it tonight and thank us later!

How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Quick Overview
This dish is all about layering flavors: juicy chicken, a creamy ranch base, and a crispy Parmesan crust. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, it’s perfect for busy evenings. The secret? Panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch and fresh Parmesan for that umami punch 4.

Key Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• 2 tbsp butter (melted)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken : Preheat oven to 375°F. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (½ inch) using a meat mallet 9. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Mix the Crust : Combine panko, ½ cup Parmesan, garlic powder, and melted butter in a bowl.
3. Coat the Chicken : Spread ranch dressing on both sides of the chicken. Press the Parmesan-panko mix onto the chicken, ensuring full coverage 6.
4. Bake : Place on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F.
5. Finish & Serve : Sprinkle remaining Parmesan on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken With

Balance the richness of this dish with fresh, vibrant sides:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes : Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up extra crust crumbs.
• Roasted Asparagus : Tossed in olive oil and lemon zest for a bright contrast.
• Caprese Salad : Juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze.
• Drinks : Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling lemonade.

Top Tips for Perfecting Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Even Thickness Matters : Pound chicken to ½ inch for consistent cooking 9.
• Use Fresh Parmesan : Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that dull flavor 3.
• Don’t Skip the Rest Time : Letting the chicken rest ensures juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
• Broil for Extra Crunch : If the crust isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely!).

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate : Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze : Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat : Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes (or until warmed through). Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.