Why Everyone Loves Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
LongHorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken has developed a loyal fan base — and for good reason. This dish delivers a perfect combination of textures and flavors that make it stand out from your average chicken dinner.
A Signature Dish from LongHorn Steakhouse
The Parmesan Crusted Chicken is one of the most popular entrees on LongHorn Steakhouse’s menu. Known for its bold flavors and hearty portions, LongHorn created a dish that blends comfort food with a touch of elegance. It features a juicy grilled chicken breast topped with a crunchy, golden parmesan crust and finished with a rich, creamy ranch sauce. The combination feels indulgent but approachable, making it a go-to order for regulars.
The Irresistible Contrast of Texture and Flavor
What makes this dish especially memorable is the contrast: the chicken is moist and tender inside, while the parmesan crust adds a crispy outer layer. The slight sharpness of the parmesan pairs beautifully with the subtle creaminess of the ranch or cheese sauce topping. It hits all the right flavor notes — salty, savory, creamy, and just a little tangy — making each bite satisfying and crave-worthy.
A Restaurant-Quality Meal You Can Make at Home
While dining out is always a treat, more and more people are looking for ways to recreate their favorite restaurant meals in their own kitchens — and the LongHorn Parmesan Chicken is a perfect candidate. It requires simple, accessible ingredients like parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, chicken breast, and ranch dressing. With a little know-how and the right technique, home cooks can whip up this copycat version in under an hour — no reservations required.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Copycat Longhorn Chicken Recipe
One of the best things about this copycat LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is that it uses simple, everyday ingredients — yet delivers restaurant-quality flavor. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll need to recreate this beloved dish at home.
Chicken Breasts: The Star of the Dish
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the base of this recipe. Choose thick, high-quality pieces — organic or free-range if possible. You’ll want to pound them slightly to ensure even cooking and tender texture. This also helps the chicken cook faster and stay juicy without drying out.
Pro Tip: If the chicken is too thick, slice it in half horizontally or use a meat mallet to flatten it to about ½ inch thick.
Parmesan Crust Ingredients: Flavor and Crunch in Every Bite
The parmesan crust is what sets this chicken apart. To replicate the LongHorn experience, you’ll need:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese – for flavor and texture
- Shredded provolone or mozzarella – adds creaminess and helps it melt
- Panko breadcrumbs – for a golden, crispy texture
- Garlic powder and Italian seasoning – to boost the flavor profile
- Butter or olive oil – helps bind the crust and encourages browning
You’ll mix these together to form a topping that’s pressed onto the chicken and baked or broiled until crisp.
Creamy Ranch Topping (Optional, but Delicious)
The creamy ranch-style topping is what takes this dish over the top. While it’s not strictly necessary, it’s what brings that authentic LongHorn flavor to the table.
To make it, you’ll need:
- Ranch dressing – preferably a thick and creamy one
- Shredded provolone or mozzarella – to melt into the sauce
- A touch of sour cream or mayonnaise – optional, for extra richness
This topping is spooned over the chicken before finishing it in the oven. The result? A creamy, cheesy coating that melts into the parmesan crust.
Seasonings and Cooking Essentials
Finally, don’t forget a few pantry staples:
- Salt and black pepper – for basic seasoning
- Olive oil – for searing or brushing over the chicken
- Nonstick spray or parchment paper – to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken at Home (Step-by-Step)
Recreating LongHorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is easier than you think. With a few simple steps and the right ingredients, you can serve a dish that tastes just like the restaurant version — maybe even better! Follow this step-by-step guide for delicious results.
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by preparing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts:
- Pound the chicken to about ½ inch thickness using a meat mallet. This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of Italian seasoning.
- Let it rest for a few minutes to absorb the seasoning while you prep the crust and topping.
Optional: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk or ranch dressing for 30 minutes for extra moisture and flavor.
Step 2: Sear or Grill the Chicken for Flavor
To lock in moisture and create a flavorful base:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken breasts for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F or 74°C).
- Alternatively, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
Step 3: Add the Parmesan Crust Topping
While the chicken cooks, prepare the crust:
- In a small bowl, mix together shredded Parmesan, mozzarella or provolone, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Spoon the mixture onto the cooked chicken breasts and gently press it down so it sticks well.
This crust is what gives the dish its signature crunch and cheesy flavor.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Ranch Topping (Optional) and Broil
To make the creamy topping:
- Combine ranch dressing with shredded provolone or mozzarella in a small bowl.
- Spoon a small amount over the parmesan crust to mimic the creamy finish from LongHorn.
Place the chicken under the broiler on high for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the crust is golden and bubbly.
Tip: Watch closely so it doesn’t burn — broilers work fast!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after broiling. Then plate and serve with your favorite sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
Pro Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken Every Time
Even though this copycat LongHorn recipe is simple, a few smart techniques can make the difference between good and truly restaurant-quality. Use these expert tips to get that golden crust, juicy chicken, and bold flavor just right every time.
Get the Crust Crispy, Not Soggy
The secret to the perfect parmesan crust is crunch and texture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones—they’re lighter and crisp up better in the oven or under the broiler.
- Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil before applying. This helps the crust brown beautifully.
- Don’t overload the crust with too much cheese; it can melt too quickly and make the topping soggy.
Also, avoid placing the chicken directly on a baking pan—use a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow airflow underneath.
Use High-Quality Parmesan and Fresh Ingredients
Flavor comes from quality ingredients. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent even melting.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and meltability.
- Choose a good brand of ranch dressing—creamy and tangy works best.
- Go for fresh garlic or garlic powder with no added salt for better seasoning control.
Using fresh, flavorful ingredients will elevate the entire dish.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Chicken breast can dry out quickly if overcooked, so:
- Pound the chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- Sear just until golden on each side, then finish in the oven or under the broiler.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) — not more.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after cooking also helps retain juices.
Customize the Flavor to Your Taste
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easy to adapt:
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or cayenne to the crust mix for a little kick.
- Toss in chopped parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note.
- Swap the ranch dressing for a garlic aioli, Caesar, or Alfredo sauce if you want a different twist.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors that match your palate.
What to Serve With Your Copycat Longhorn Chicken
Your homemade Parmesan Crusted Chicken deserves to be paired with delicious, well-balanced side dishes that complete the restaurant-style experience. Here are some perfect sides — from classic comfort foods to fresh, vibrant options — that complement the rich flavors of this dish.
Classic Steakhouse Sides
LongHorn is known for hearty, comforting side dishes, and you can bring that vibe home:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and full of flavor — mashed potatoes are the ideal pairing to soak up the cheesy ranch topping.
- Seasoned Rice Pilaf: A lightly herbed rice pilaf provides a mild, fluffy contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Macaroni and Cheese: For the ultimate comfort-food combo, serve with extra-cheesy baked mac and cheese.
These sides balance the meal and make it extra satisfying.
Fresh and Light Options
If you’re aiming for a lighter or more refreshing plate, try these sides:
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Crisp-tender vegetables cut through the richness of the chicken and add vibrant color to your plate.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad pair beautifully with the parmesan flavor in the chicken.
- Roasted Asparagus: Simply roasted with olive oil, salt, and lemon zest — asparagus offers a touch of elegance and freshness.
These options are great if you’re looking for something low-carb or keto-friendly, too.
Bread and Sauces to Round Out the Meal
Don’t forget the finishing touches that make your meal feel complete:
- Warm Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread: Ideal for scooping up extra sauce and cheese from your plate.
- Homemade Ranch or Garlic Aioli: Serve extra on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon over the chicken right before serving can brighten and balance the flavors.
These extras add texture, contrast, and that restaurant-like attention to detail.
This recipe is inspired by the popular Parmesan Crusted Chicken served at LongHorn Steakhouse—a dish known for its rich flavors and perfectly crispy topping. If you’d like to see the original version or explore other popular steakhouse dishes, you can check out the official LongHorn Steakhouse dinner menu for more inspiration.