Introduction
There is something deeply satisfying about recreating your favorite restaurant meals at home. Whether it is to save money, avoid the crowds, or simply enjoy cooking, there is a certain joy in mastering dishes that you usually only find on a restaurant menu. One dish that consistently ranks among the top picks at Longhorn Steakhouse is their legendary Parmesan Crusted Chicken. It is creamy, cheesy, crispy, and full of flavor in every bite. If you have ever found yourself craving that dish but did not want to leave the house or spend too much, you are in the right place.
This recipe is designed to be as close to the original as possible without being overly complicated. With simple ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store, this dish can come together quickly, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The juicy chicken breast is seasoned and cooked to perfection, then coated with a creamy ranch Parmesan spread and finished with a crispy, golden Parmesan crust. It is a rich, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying meal that will leave your family asking for seconds.
Whether you are an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. In this guide, you will find a full ingredients list with calorie information, step-by-step instructions, tips to make it your own, and ideas for serving. By the end, you will have everything you need to bring the restaurant experience into your kitchen.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or common grocery items, yet when combined, they create an unforgettable dish. Below is everything you will need to prepare this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
For the Chicken
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Ranch Parmesan Spread
1/4 cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
For the Parmesan Crust
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella if preferred)
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients work together to deliver the creamy, savory, and crispy layers that define this dish. Now let us take a look at the calorie breakdown to help you track your intake if needed.
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 (about 8 oz each) | 440 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Ranch dressing | 1/4 cup | 280 |
| Grated Parmesan (spread) | 2 tablespoons | 44 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup | 100 |
| Shredded Parmesan (crust) | 1/4 cup | 110 |
| Melted butter | 2 tablespoons | 200 |
| Shredded provolone | 2 tablespoons | 60 |
| Seasonings and herbs | To taste | 10 |
| Total per serving | Serves 2 | Approximately 682 |
These values are based on general nutritional data. Depending on brands or substitutions, the calorie content may vary slightly.
Read More: Creamy Steak Bites Recipe
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let us walk through the cooking process in a clear and simple way. Each step is designed to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly seasoned, juicy, and delicious with that unmistakable cheesy crust.
Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. If they are too thick, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken in the skillet and sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. The goal is to get a nice crust on the outside while locking in the juices. You do not need to cook it all the way through at this stage.
While the chicken is searing, mix the ranch dressing with grated Parmesan in a small bowl. This creamy mixture adds moisture and tang, acting as the glue for the cheesy crust.
In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan, melted butter, and shredded provolone. Stir until the mixture resembles a loose crumble. This will become the golden, crispy topping that makes this dish so irresistible.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon the ranch Parmesan spread over the top of each piece, then cover generously with the Parmesan crust mixture.
Bake in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if needed to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
For a restaurant-style finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning, but this step adds that final crispy texture that makes all the difference.
Read More: Baked Stuffed Chicken Breast for Dinner
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can tweak it based on dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what you have on hand.
If you like a bit of heat, stir some crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the ranch spread. For a lower-carb version, substitute crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the panko breadcrumbs. If ranch is not your thing, try mixing sour cream or a garlic aioli with Parmesan instead.
You can also switch up the cheese. Mozzarella gives a gooier melt, while asiago adds more sharpness. Want to make it more herbaceous? Add some chopped basil or thyme to the topping. These small adjustments allow you to put your own twist on the dish while keeping the spirit of the original intact.
Nutritional Information
This dish is rich and indulgent, so it is helpful to know what you are eating, especially if you are watching your macros. Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | About 682 |
| Protein | 45 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12 grams |
| Total Fat | 48 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 17 grams |
| Sugar | 1 gram |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 850 milligrams |
This meal is high in protein and fat, making it very filling. Serve with lighter sides to balance it out.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic restaurant feel, serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. If you are looking for something lighter, a fresh salad with vinaigrette or roasted asparagus works wonderfully.
You can also slice the chicken and serve it over pasta, rice, or even in a sandwich for leftovers. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the richness of the dish perfectly.
Read More: Creamy Rice and Chicken Casserole Recipe
Conclusion
Now that you have everything you need, it is time to bring the bold flavors of Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken into your own kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and packed with flavor. Whether you are cooking for your family, hosting a dinner, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress.
Cooking at home does not have to mean compromising on taste. With this copycat recipe, you get the satisfaction of a restaurant-quality meal with the comfort and control of home cooking. So roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy every cheesy, crispy, juicy bite.