Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving home, especially on a hectic weeknight when the family is gathered around the table. This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken captures that savory, crispy perfection with tender marinated breasts topped in a creamy ranch-Parmesan blend and melted provolone, all finished under the broiler for a golden crunch. It’s straightforward enough for any busy cook to whip up, delivering bold flavors that feel indulgent yet comforting.

What draws people to this dish is its versatility as a weeknight staple or impressive dinner party centerpiece, reheating beautifully for lunches the next day. The ranch infusion adds a tangy twist that pairs seamlessly with everyday sides, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, with minimal hands-on time after marinating, it fits right into packed schedules without sacrificing taste.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Restaurant Flavor at Home: Recreate the iconic Longhorn Steakhouse taste with simple ingredients for a crispy, cheesy delight.
• Quick and Family-Friendly: Ready in under an hour, this dish pleases picky eaters with its tender chicken and golden topping.
• Make-Ahead Ease: Marinate overnight to save time, turning busy evenings into stress-free meals.
• Versatile Main Dish: Pairs effortlessly with sides, offering cozy comfort without heavy prep.

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Ingredients to make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

These ingredients blend tangy ranch notes with savory Parmesan and herbs, creating layers of flavor that elevate the chicken while keeping things simple and accessible. Opting for fresh, quality cheeses and dressings enhances the melt and crisp without overpowering the dish.

• Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless, pounded thin for even cooking and tenderness.
• Ranch dressing – Provides creamy tang in the marinade and topping for moisture and zest.
• Italian dressing – Adds herbaceous brightness to the marinade, infusing subtle Italian flair.
• Garlic powder – Boosts savory depth without fresh chopping, essential for bold seasoning.
• Onion powder – Contributes mild sweetness and umami to balance the herbs.
• Dried basil – Infuses earthy, aromatic notes that complement the cheesy elements.
• Black pepper – Delivers a subtle kick to enhance overall flavor without heat.
• Olive oil – Used for sautéing to achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
• Butter – Adds richness to the skillet for better browning and flavor.
• Shredded Parmesan cheese – Melts into the creamy topping, providing nutty sharpness.
• Provolone cheese – Torn slices melt smoothly over the ranch mixture for gooey texture.
• Italian-style Panko breadcrumbs – Creates a light, crispy crust when toasted under the broiler.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Mixes into the crumb topping for extra cheesy crunch.

How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If using full breasts, slice them into thinner fillets or pound to an even ½-inch thickness for uniform cooking. This ensures the chicken cooks quickly and absorbs the marinade well. Pat dry before proceeding to help the flavors adhere.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Combine ranch dressing, Italian dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and black pepper in a bowl to create the marinade. Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly and let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor infusion. This step tenderizes the meat and builds the base taste.

Step 3: Mix the Toppings

In a small bowl, stir together shredded Parmesan cheese and additional ranch dressing to form a creamy spread; set it aside. In another bowl, blend Italian-style Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter for the crispy layer. Preparing these ahead streamlines the assembly.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to an oven-safe dish to prepare for broiling.

Step 5: Add Cheese Layers and Broil

Preheat the broiler to low around 450°F. Spread the ranch-Parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast, then top with torn provolone slices. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheeses melt and bubble, watching closely to prevent over-browning.

Step 6: Finish with Crumb Topping

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the melted cheese. Return to the broiler for 2-4 more minutes until the topping turns golden brown and toasted. Remove immediately to avoid burning, then serve hot for the best texture.

Pro Tips for Success

• Marinate Overnight: Let the chicken soak in the dressing mixture for maximum flavor penetration and tenderness.
• Watch the Broiler: Keep a close eye during the final toasting to prevent the cheese or breadcrumbs from burning quickly.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure uniform thickness so the chicken cooks through without drying out in spots.
• Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Opt for quality Panko to achieve that light, crispy golden finish on top.

How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

I like to finish this dish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green color and herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A light dusting of extra grated Parmesan adds more nutty depth right before serving. These simple touches make it look restaurant-ready without much effort.

Side Dishes

Pair it with steamed broccoli or green beans to balance the cheesy indulgence with crisp, fresh veggies that soak up any pan juices. Roasted potatoes or a simple salad provide hearty, no-fuss accompaniments that keep the meal feeling light yet satisfying. I find these options make it ideal for family dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken and fan it out on plates over a bed of angel hair pasta tossed in marinara for an Italian-inspired stack. Arrange it alongside grilled asparagus spears drizzled with balsamic for a elegant touch. This presentation highlights the golden, crispy topping beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover Longhorn Parmesan Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it keeps well for up to three days. The cheese topping firms up slightly but retains its flavor. Just cover it tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap cooled portions individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to two months. This method preserves the crispy texture better than stacking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to avoid sogginess.

Reheating

For quick meals, I reheat in the microwave on medium power in 30-second bursts, covered with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, tented with foil to maintain the golden crust without over-browning. This revives the tenderness nicely.