If you’ve been craving that restaurant magic at home, you’re in for a treat! This Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings you the unmistakably savory, cheesy, and satisfyingly crisp experience straight from your own oven—no reservation required. Each bite has the juicy tenderness of properly cooked chicken, the richness of garlic and butter, all layered under a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust. It’s a total showstopper for weeknight dinners, fancy gatherings, or whenever you just want something outrageously delicious. Whether you know the original or not, this dish offers a memorable fusion of flavor and texture that’s tough to beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is that it relies on everyday ingredients, each chosen for their starring role in building flavor and crunch. Gather these staples for a dish that punches way above its weight in taste!
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless cuts stay juicy and are the ideal canvas for all the cheesy, garlicky goodness.
- Olive oil: A quick sear in oil locks in moisture and gives a lovely golden exterior.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the savory notes in each layer.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and balance to the richness.
- Paprika: This gives your chicken a warm color and just a whisper of sweet smokiness.
- Garlic powder: Lends a foundational, mellow garlic flavor throughout the chicken itself.
- Ranch dressing: A creamy layer that binds the cheeses and brings zing.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese: Nutty, salty, and the heart of that irresistible crust.
- Shredded provolone cheese: Adds melty stretch and mildness—swap for mozzarella if you prefer.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Create an extra-crispy, bakery-worthy crust.
- Butter (melted): Helps the topping brown beautifully while layering on rich flavor.
- Minced garlic: Sharp and fragrant, it makes the cheese topping pop.
- Dried parsley: For an herby touch of color and earthiness.
How to Make Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F so you’re ready to go. While the oven heats, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this ensures a beautiful sear. Sprinkle both sides of each breast with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. These seasonings do more than just add flavor—they also help the chicken develop an appealing color and an underlying warmth in every bite.
Step 2: Sear to Lock in Flavor
Set a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil. Once it shimmers, gently lay in the chicken breasts. Sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until each is dressed in a golden crust. Don’t rush this step—it’s key for locking in juices and flavor. When seared, move the whole skillet into the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, so the chicken cooks through without drying out.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Layer
While your chicken bakes, stir together the ranch dressing, Parmesan, and provolone cheese in a bowl. This mixture is pure magic—creamy from the ranch, bold from the Parmesan, and just stringy enough from the provolone. It’s what sets Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken apart from your average baked chicken.
Step 4: Mix the Crispy Topping
Grab another bowl and combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Panko creates that signature crunch, while butter helps everything brown and melds the garlicky flavor right into the topping. The parsley’s hint of green makes the finished dish look as enticing as it tastes.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
When the chicken breasts are nearly cooked through, carefully spread the cheesy ranch mixture over each one in an even layer. Sprinkle the panko topping generously across the surface. Slide the skillet back into the oven and switch to the broil setting. Give it just 2 to 3 minutes until you see the crust turn golden and irresistibly crisp. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let your Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken rest for a few minutes after broiling. This little pause allows all the juices to redistribute, so every slice is velvety and moist. Then, plate up and get ready to impress—this is comfort food with serious star power.
How to Serve Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Garnishes
This dish looks and tastes fantastic on its own, but a light sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a little shaved Parmesan over the top right before serving adds a pop of color and a fresh finish. A wedge of lemon alongside is another simple flourish that brightens up every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken with sides that complement its richness. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad are always winning options. For something lighter, try a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon, or keep it classic with buttery garlic bread.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’d like to turn this meal into something extra special, slice the chicken and fan it over pasta Alfredo, nestle it on top of a colorful grain salad, or assemble it in a sandwich roll with extra cheese and greens. The golden, cheesy crust makes for an impressive main at any dinner party or family meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Your Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken will keep in the fridge for up to three days. It’s just as tasty the next day, making it ideal for meal-prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooled chicken in individual portions. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a zip-top bag. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust crisps up again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the topping soggy—an oven or toaster oven works best to revive that signature crunch.
FAQs
What makes Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken so flavorful?
The combination of a perfectly seasoned chicken base, a creamy cheese layer, and a crispy, garlic-kissed breadcrumb topping creates layers of flavor and texture. The broil at the end brings everything together with an irresistible golden crust.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and offer an extra-juicy interior. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes in the oven.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes! Just swap the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative, and you’ll have a gluten-free Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken with the same delicious results.
Can I make this ahead for a dinner party?
You can prepare the chicken and toppings ahead, then assemble and broil just before serving. This makes it simple to serve fresh, hot, and perfectly crusted chicken to your guests without last-minute stress.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
If you’re out of ranch, try using Caesar dressing, sour cream mixed with garlic powder, or a little mayo with Italian herbs. Each brings its own twist but keeps the dish creamy and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to wow your friends, family, or just yourself, this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken is truly up to the task. It’s a dish with bold flavors, unbeatable texture, and a straightforward process—definitely one you’ll come back to again and again. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your home kitchen!
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Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Juicy chicken breasts crusted with a savory blend of cheeses and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection. A restaurant-worthy dish made right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
Breadcrumb Topping:
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Season the chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sear chicken until golden brown.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to oven, bake chicken for 10–12 minutes.
- Prepare cheese mixture: Mix ranch dressing, Parmesan, and provolone cheese in a bowl.
- Make breadcrumb topping: Combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic, and parsley in another bowl.
- Assemble and broil: Spread cheese mixture over chicken, top with breadcrumbs, broil until golden and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Let chicken rest before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute mozzarella for provolone.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in Italian dressing for 1 hour before cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 46g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
