Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delectable dish known for its crispy breadcrumb and cheese coating, complemented by a creamy ranch dressing. Recreating this restaurant favorite at home allows you to enjoy a flavorful meal with family and friends. Follow our detailed guide for a successful replication of this beloved dish.
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Recipe
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook’s Tips for Success
- Variations and Substitutions
- FAQs About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Conclusion
1. Overview of the Recipe
Parmesan Crusted Chicken features boneless, skinless chicken breasts coated in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Provolone, and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to a golden perfection and served with ranch dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that promises a delightful dining experience at home.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Coat the Chicken:
- In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded Provolone cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Dip and Coat:
- Brush each chicken breast with ranch dressing, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on both sides.
4. Arrange in Baking Dish:
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
5. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle additional ranch dressing over the chicken if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions.
4. Cook’s Tips for Success
- Chicken Thickness: For even cooking, ensure chicken breasts are of uniform thickness.
- Cheese Mixture: Mix cheeses well to distribute evenly throughout the breadcrumb coating.
- Baking Time: Adjust baking time based on the thickness of chicken breasts to avoid overcooking.
Additional Tips:
- Enhance Flavor: Marinate chicken breasts in ranch dressing for 30 minutes before coating for added flavor.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy coating, lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before baking.
- Ranch Dressing: Use homemade ranch dressing for a fresher taste, or substitute with your favorite creamy dressing.
5. Variations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for panko breadcrumbs. Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat. Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
6. FAQs About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze Parmesan Crusted Chicken? A: Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before baking. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Longhorn Steakhouse Copycat Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings the flavors of a favorite restaurant meal to your home kitchen. With its crispy, cheesy coating and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the restaurant experience without leaving home with this easy-to-follow recipe!
