There's nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy perfection of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, recreated right in your own kitchen. This copycat recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich, golden crust that will have your family swooning at the dinner table.

I first tried this dish at Longhorn Steakhouse on a special family night out, and I couldn't resist the challenge of recreating it at home. Now, it's a regular star in our dinner rotation, loved for its flavor-packed simplicity and irresistible texture.

Why You'll Love This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Get ready to add this crowd-pleaser to your list of go-to recipes. This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s a showstopper.

First, the perfect balance of flavors will win you over. The seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy ranch topping and crispy Parmesan crust, creating layers of flavor in every bite.

Next, it’s easier to make than you think. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this restaurant-quality dish can be on your table in under an hour.

It’s also budget-friendly. Forget splurging on dining out—this recipe brings all the indulgence to your kitchen without breaking the bank.

Lastly, this recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can customize the seasoning, adjust the crust to your liking, or even swap the chicken for other proteins like pork or fish. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a critical role in delivering that signature taste and texture.

Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For even cooking, pound them to a uniform thickness of about 1 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Seasonings: A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika elevates the chicken with just the right amount of flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste.

Ranch Dressing: This creamy component serves as the base for the Parmesan crust. Use your favorite brand, or make a homemade version for an extra touch of personalization.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is key for the topping. It melts beautifully and gives the dish its signature nutty, golden crust.

Provolone Cheese: This adds a gooey, melty layer underneath the Parmesan crust. It’s the secret to replicating that restaurant-style finish.

No special equipment is required, though a meat mallet for pounding the chicken and a broiler for the crust are helpful.

How To Make This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Recreating this restaurant favorite at home is easier than you’d think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a masterpiece on your plate in no time.

Start by preparing your chicken. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This step ensures every bite is flavorful and well-cooked.

Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken in a drizzle of olive oil. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Once seared, transfer the chicken to a baking dish and set aside.

Prepare the topping by mixing ranch dressing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts. Add a slice of provolone cheese to each piece, ensuring it covers the chicken completely.

Sprinkle more freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the provolone layer. Place the chicken under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely as the cheese melts and forms a golden, bubbly crust.

Once the crust is perfectly browned, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Total cooking time is about 40 minutes, making this a perfect option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Storage Options

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

If you’d like to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating is simple: place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes. To crisp up the crust, uncover the dish for the last 5 minutes of reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs.

Switch up the cheese: Try swapping the provolone for mozzarella or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a little heat.
Low-carb option: Use a keto-friendly ranch dressing and almond flour in the crust to keep it low-carb without sacrificing flavor.
Vegetarian version: Replace the chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a cheesy, veggie-forward main course.
Gluten-free adaptation: Ensure all ingredients, especially the ranch dressing and cheeses, are certified gluten-free.

Experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own. It’s a versatile dish that invites creativity!

With its irresistible flavor, easy preparation, and restaurant-quality finish, this Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is bound to become a favorite in your household. Ready to dig in?