Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse’s renowned Parmesan Crusted Chicken from the comfort of your home. This recipe features tender marinated chicken breasts topped with a creamy, cheesy crust and a crispy breadcrumb topping, delivering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Why This Recipe Is Appealing

This dish stands out for its harmonious blend of juicy, well-seasoned chicken, rich melted cheeses, and a satisfying crunchy topping. Marinating the chicken enhances its tenderness and infuses it with flavor, while the cheese and breadcrumb layers add depth and texture, making it a favorite among chicken enthusiasts.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ¾ inch thickness
• ½ cup Italian dressing
• ⅓ cup ranch dressing
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

For the Ranch Spread:

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup buttermilk ranch dressing

For the Parmesan Crust Topping:

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For Assembly:

• 4 slices provolone cheese

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a large bowl, combine Italian dressing, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and black pepper.
   • Add the pounded chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
2. Prepare the Ranch Spread:
   • In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese and ¼ cup buttermilk ranch dressing. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Parmesan Crust Topping:
   • In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. Set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
   • Remove the skillet from heat but keep the chicken in the pan.
5. Assemble and Broil:
   • Preheat your oven’s broiler on low and position the oven rack in the middle.
   • Spread the prepared ranch spread evenly over each chicken breast.
   • Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of the ranch spread on each piece of chicken.
   • Sprinkle the Parmesan crust topping over the provolone cheese on each chicken breast.
   • Place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. Monitor closely to prevent burning.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
   • Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Possible Variations

• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute provolone with Swiss, mozzarella, or Munster cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Marinade Shortcut: Use Italian salad dressing alone as a quick marinade alternative.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds to reduce carbohydrate content.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes (excluding marination time).
• Cooking Time: About 20 minutes.
• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes plus marination time.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

It’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse. For optimal tenderness and taste, marinating for up to 2 hours is ideal.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grilling the chicken is an excellent alternative. Grill over medium-high heat for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

If panko breadcrumbs are unavailable, you can use regular breadcrumbs. However, panko provides a lighter, crispier texture. For a low-carb option, crushed pork rinds can be used as a substitute.

Is there a substitute for provolone cheese?

Absolutely. Swiss, mozzarella, or Munster cheese can be used in place of provolone, each offering a unique flavor to the dish.

Can I prepare the ranch spread and Parmesan topping in advance?

Yes, both the ranch spread and Parmesan topping can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

How do I ensure the breadcrumb topping stays crispy?

To maintain a crispy topping, ensure the breadcrumbs are well-coated with melted butter before broiling. Additionally, broil just until golden brown and serve immediately.

What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Caesar salad.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust cooking times as needed, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I prevent the cheese from burning under the broiler?

Monitor the chicken closely while broiling, as oven temperatures can vary. Positioning the oven rack in the middle helps prevent the cheese from burning.

Is it necessary to use an oven-safe skillet?

Using an oven-safe skillet allows for a seamless transition from stovetop to broiler. If unavailable, transfer the chicken to a baking dish before broiling.

Conclusion

Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is both rewarding and straightforward. This recipe delivers a delectable combination of marinated, juicy chicken topped with creamy cheeses and a crispy breadcrumb crust. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

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