Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy Perfection

If you’re a fan of restaurant-style meals that you can make at home, then Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the dish for you. This recipe brings together tender chicken breasts, a crispy Parmesan topping, and the gooey, melted mozzarella cheese for an unforgettable meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for dinner any day of the week. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a meal for a special occasion, or simply craving a delicious chicken recipe, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process of making Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. From the seasoning of the chicken breasts to creating the crisp, cheesy topping, we will provide every detail you need to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why Choose Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

You might be wondering: what makes Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken stand out from other chicken recipes? Well, this dish is more than just a simple chicken dinner. The secret lies in the Parmesan crust topping. It is the perfect combination of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder that gives this dish its irresistible crunchy texture. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly complemented by the moist chicken breasts.

When paired with the melted mozzarella and a thin layer of ranch dressing, this dish turns ordinary chicken into a cheesy, crispy masterpiece. The Parmesan Crusted Chicken has the perfect balance of saltiness and umami, giving each bite a burst of savory flavors.

Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish:

Chicken Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Parmesan Crust Topping:

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your Parmesan Crusted Chicken in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that the chicken cooks perfectly and the topping gets crispy and golden.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts

Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and black pepper. The seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making every bite more delicious.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown. Searing the chicken first adds a crispy texture to the surface, which helps lock in the juices and creates a more flavorful result.

Once seared, transfer the chicken breasts to a baking dish. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.

Step 4: Add Ranch Dressing and Cheese

Spread a generous layer of ranch dressing over each chicken breast. The ranch adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that pairs beautifully with the other flavors.

Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the ranch-dressed chicken. The mozzarella will melt into a gooey, cheesy layer, while the Parmesan provides that sharp, nutty flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Parmesan Crust Topping

In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Mix everything until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the melted butter and seasonings. This topping will give the chicken its deliciously crispy texture.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the chicken, ensuring every piece is covered. This layer of breadcrumbs will toast up in the oven, adding crunch and flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Chicken

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. The chicken should be fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), and the topping should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Serve it hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf. The crispy Parmesan topping and melted cheese make it a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers so much more than just a tasty meal—it’s an experience. Here are some reasons why you should add this dish to your weekly dinner rotation:

• Crispy Texture: The Parmesan crust topping adds a satisfying crunch with every bite, making the dish feel more indulgent and enjoyable.
• Cheesy Goodness: The combination of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese brings creamy, melty goodness that complements the crispy crust.
• Simple Ingredients: This dish uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The use of ranch dressing adds a twist of flavor that makes the chicken even more delicious.
• Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this meal is relatively quick and easy to make. With just a little prep and 20 minutes of baking, you’ll have a meal that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
• Perfect for Family Dinners: Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please everyone around the table.

FAQs About Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work just as well for this recipe. They tend to be juicier than breasts, so the Parmesan crust will still have a nice, crispy texture, and the chicken will stay moist.

2. Can I make the Parmesan crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Parmesan crust topping ahead of time and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. Just sprinkle it on top of the chicken before baking.

3. Can I substitute ranch dressing?

If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, creamy Caesar dressing, or even a mix of sour cream and mayonnaise for a different flavor profile.

4. How can I make the topping extra crispy?

To make the topping even crispier, try broiling the chicken for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

5. What sides go well with Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or steamed green beans. You can also serve it with a light side salad for a more balanced meal.

Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is an easy-to-make yet indulgent meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its crispy Parmesan topping, gooey cheese, and juicy chicken, it’s a recipe that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

So, next time you’re craving a cheesy chicken dinner, give this Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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