If I’m craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Crusted Chicken hits the spot. It’s a delightful combination of juicy, marinated chicken topped with a creamy cheese blend and a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests, this dish brings the steakhouse experience to my kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

Flavorful Marinade: The chicken is marinated in a blend of ranch and Italian dressings, infusing it with rich flavors and ensuring tenderness.
Cheesy Goodness: A mix of provolone and Parmesan cheeses melts beautifully over the chicken, creating a creamy layer that’s hard to resist.
Crispy Topping: The buttery panko breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting perfectly with the tender chicken and melted cheese.
Versatile: I can pair this dish with various sides, from mashed potatoes to steamed vegetables, making it suitable for different occasions.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The components can be prepared in advance, allowing for a quick assembly and cooking when I’m ready to serve.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken and Marinade:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup Italian dressing
⅓ cup ranch dressing
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Cheese Topping:

4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded or diced
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup ranch dressing

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1½ teaspoons garlic powder
3 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Marinate the Chicken: I whisk together the Italian and ranch dressings in a bowl. After seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, I place them in a resealable bag or container, pour the marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
Prepare the Cheese Topping: In a separate bowl, I combine the provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ranch dressing. I set this mixture aside.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: I mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and melted butter in another bowl until well combined.
Cook the Chicken: I preheat my oven’s broiler on low. In a large, oven-safe skillet, I heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. I remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off, and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until it’s browned and cooked through.
Assemble and Broil: I spread the cheese topping evenly over each chicken breast, then sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top. I place the skillet under the broiler for 5–10 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Serve: Once done, I remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (excluding marinating)

Variations

Cheese Alternatives: If I don’t have provolone, I sometimes use mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture enhances the aroma and taste.
Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, I mix some red pepper flakes into the cheese topping.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, I freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To maintain the crispy topping, I reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes. If I’m in a hurry, I use the microwave, but the topping may lose some of its crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. They offer a juicier texture and richer flavor. I just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What can I serve with this chicken?

I often pair this dish with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Garlic bread or roasted potatoes also complement it well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I marinate the chicken and prepare the cheese and breadcrumb toppings in advance. When ready to cook, I assemble and broil the dish as directed.

Is there a gluten-free version?

To make this recipe gluten-free, I use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the dressings are gluten-free. Always check labels to confirm.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink in the center.

Conclusion

Recreating Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is a rewarding experience. The combination of marinated chicken, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs delivers a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.