How to Make Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken has come a long way since the restaurant’s humble beginnings in 1981 Atlanta. Initially famous for its butter-grilled steaks, this parmesan-topped chicken dish has become equally beloved, offering 650 calories of pure comfort food satisfaction.

While the restaurant version is delicious, we can create this mouthwatering dish at home in just 30 minutes. Our copycat recipe features four boneless chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of Italian and ranch dressings, then topped with a crispy parmesan crust and broiled to perfection at 165°F. This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh Caesar salad.

In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to recreate this Longhorn Steakhouse favorite in your kitchen, complete with that signature golden-brown, crispy parmesan crust that makes this dish so special.

What Makes Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken So Special?

The magic of Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Furthermore, this dish stands out for its ability to deliver a rich, cheesy taste in every bite.

Signature parmesan crust and rich flavors

The secret behind this exceptional dish starts with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Additionally, the pre-shredded varieties contain cellulose or potato starch coatings that prevent proper melting. The signature crust combines premium parmesan with carefully selected seasonings, creating an irresistible golden-brown topping that adds both flavor and visual appeal.

The combination of grilled chicken and crispy cheese topping

The preparation method makes this dish truly special. First, the chicken undergoes a thorough marination process, which significantly enhances its flavor profile. Subsequently, the meat is grilled to achieve that distinctive steakhouse-style sear. The provolone cheese and crumb topping work together to create an unforgettable taste experience.

Why it’s a fan favorite at Longhorn Steakhouse

This dish has earned its place as a must-order item on the Longhorn menu. Certainly, its popularity stems from the meticulous attention to detail in preparation. The chicken remains consistently tender and juicy beneath its crispy exterior. Moreover, the cooking process involves using a broiler, which perfectly replicates the restaurant’s signature texture.

The versatility of this dish adds to its appeal. Although it traditionally uses boneless chicken breast, bone-in variations work equally well with a slight adjustment in cooking time. Nevertheless, the restaurant recommends avoiding skin-on chicken, as the parmesan spread and crumb topping prevents the skin from achieving optimal crispiness.

The combination of expert grilling techniques and premium ingredients creates a dining experience that keeps customers coming back. Besides, the dish offers consistent quality across all Longhorn locations, making it a reliable choice for both regular patrons and first-time visitors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing this classic dish starts with gathering the right ingredients. Primarily, fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your parmesan-crusted chicken.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Crust:

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Pinch of salt

Before starting, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. Specifically, let the chicken breasts sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking. As a result, they’ll cook more evenly. Meanwhile, grate the Parmesan cheese fresh – pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.

For optimal results, choose high-quality Parmesan cheese labeled “Parmigiano-Reggiano.” Generally, this authentic Italian cheese offers superior flavor and melting properties compared to domestic varieties. Undoubtedly, using fresh garlic rather than garlic powder in the butter sauce creates a more robust flavor profile.

Store unused ingredients properly – keep cheese refrigerated in an airtight container, herbs wrapped in slightly damp paper towels, and butter in a covered dish. Under these conditions, your ingredients will maintain their freshness until you’re ready to cook.

Remember to measure all ingredients before starting. Accordingly, this preparation ensures a smooth cooking process without scrambling for measurements midway through the recipe.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Creating the perfect parmesan-crusted chicken requires attention to detail and precise timing. Let me walk you through each crucial step to achieve that signature Longhorn Steakhouse taste.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Buttermilk marinade for juicy texture)

The secret to tender, flavorful chicken starts with a buttermilk marinade. The acidic nature of buttermilk breaks down protein fibers, ensuring the meat stays moist throughout cooking. Mix buttermilk with mustard, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a bowl. Place chicken in a resealable bag with the marinade for 2-8 hours. For optimal results, let the chicken marinate overnight, yet avoid exceeding 24 hours as extended marination can affect texture.

Step 2: Grill or Bake the Chicken (How to get that steakhouse-style sear)

Remove marinated chicken 30 minutes before cooking to reach room temperature. Preheat your grill to 375-400°F. Grill each side for approximately 3 minutes until reaching an internal temperature of 155-160°F. Baste with melted butter between flips to maintain moisture. Once done, let the chicken rest for 7-8 minutes before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust (Mixing parmesan, panko, and ranch dressing)

Combine grated parmesan cheese with ranch dressing during the chicken’s rest period. Mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic salt and shredded parmesan in a separate bowl. The breadcrumbs should be evenly moistened with melted butter to achieve the perfect texture.

Step 4: Broil for a Crispy Finish (Getting that perfect golden crust)

Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Spread 2 tablespoons of the ranch-parmesan mixture on each chicken breast. Top with provolone cheese and the prepared breadcrumb mixture. Broil for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully until the crust turns light brown. The final internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure food safety.

Throughout the process, avoid opening the oven door frequently during broiling, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Primarily, focus on achieving that signature golden-brown crust without burning the cheese topping.

Tips for the Best Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Success with parmesan-crusted chicken depends on mastering a few key techniques. I’ve discovered several tricks that elevate this dish from good to exceptional.

Use freshly grated parmesan for better texture and flavor

Parmigiano-Reggiano stands out as the premium choice for this recipe. Unlike pre-grated alternatives, fresh parmesan delivers superior melting properties and a distinct umami-rich flavor that enhances the overall dish. When shopping, look for cheese with the authentic rind – it’s a telltale sign of quality. Notably, store-bought grated cheese often contains preservatives that affect its melting characteristics.

How to achieve a crispy, golden crust without burning

The perfect crust starts with maintaining your oil at 350°F. This temperature ensures thorough cooking without burning the exterior. When preparing the chicken, handle it with tongs instead of piercing implements to retain its natural juices. Most importantly, aim to flip the chicken only once during cooking – this technique creates an initial crust that absorbs minimal additional oil.

Best sides to serve with parmesan-crusted chicken

This versatile dish pairs beautifully with numerous side options. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms complement the chicken’s flavors perfectly. For a lighter option, consider creating a fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. Starchy sides also work exceptionally well – options include mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

One particularly effective approach involves roasting vegetables simultaneously with the chicken, as most vegetables require only 20-30 minutes in the oven. Consider preparing sides like corn salad with bacon or broccoli salad while the chicken bakes. Ultimately, the key lies in creating a balanced plate that enhances the chicken’s rich flavors without overpowering them.

Remember to consider the cooking temperatures of your chosen sides. Primarily, vegetables can roast alongside the chicken, saving both time and energy. Above all, focus on creating a harmonious meal where each component complements the others.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Let’s address some common questions about making this delicious parmesan-crusted chicken at home.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. For bone-in thighs, bake at 400°F for approximately 30 minutes. Boneless skinless thighs require similar adjustments – they’ll need about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Essentially, the key lies in monitoring the internal temperature rather than strictly following cooking times. Drumsticks also make an excellent alternative, though cooking times will need adjustment.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store your leftover parmesan-crusted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. To maintain optimal texture, here are the best reheating methods:

• Oven Method: Preheat to 400°F and heat for 5-8 minutes on a lightly greased baking rack
• Air Fryer: Use the “snack” setting for 4-6 minutes
• Microwave: Heat for 90 seconds, continuing in 15-second intervals if needed

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Indeed, this recipe adapts beautifully to air fryer cooking. Set your air fryer to 390°F for best results. For chicken breasts that have been halved and pounded thin, cook for approximately 15 minutes. If using chicken tenders, increase temperature to 400°F and cook for 5-6 minutes per side.

A few important air fryer tips:

• Avoid using heavy, wet batters as they’ll drip through the tray
• The light breadcrumb coating works perfectly with eggwash
• For optimal results, place chicken pieces in a single layer without touching
• Consider using Greek yogurt or sour cream as alternatives to mayonnaise in the coating

Remember to check the internal temperature regardless of which cooking method you choose. The parmesan crust should achieve a golden-brown color while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

Making Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home brings restaurant-quality dining right to your kitchen table. Fresh ingredients, particularly high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, make all the difference between a good dish and an exceptional one.

After mastering this recipe, you’ll notice the chicken turns out perfectly juicy each time, while the golden-brown parmesan crust delivers that signature crunch we all love. Though the original recipe calls for chicken breasts, feel free to experiment with thighs or tenders – just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in its adaptability. Whether you choose traditional oven baking, grilling, or air frying, the result remains consistently delicious. Simply pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a steakhouse-worthy meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.