Introduction:
Longhorn Steakhouse’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken is legendary for its juicy grilled chicken topped with a golden, cheesy crust that’s crispy on the outside and creamy underneath. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a “restaurant-at-home” night—without the takeout bill.
Origin and Cultural Significance:
Longhorn Steakhouse, known for hearty American comfort food, popularized this dish by combining classic Midwestern flavors: grilled meat, melted cheese, and a savory crust. Copycats quickly spread across home kitchens because it delivers steakhouse-level satisfaction with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients & Quantities:
Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Topping:
- ¼ cup ranch dressing (or Caesar dressing for extra zing)
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Optional Additions:
- A squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness
- Crushed red pepper for heat
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Tips for Success:
- Pound chicken to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Broil the topping at the end for maximum crunch.
- Don’t overcook—juicy chicken makes all the difference!
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cook chicken in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until browned.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and brush tops with ranch dressing.
- In a bowl, mix Parmesan, mozzarella, panko, and melted butter.
- Press topping mixture firmly onto chicken breasts.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Description:
The first bite delivers a perfect contrast—tender chicken layered with creamy ranch and a crispy, cheesy crust that crackles ever so slightly. It’s rich, savory, and wildly addictive.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving):
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbs: 12g
Conclusion and Recommendation:
This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted broccoli, or even over pasta. It’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence:
Yes, it’s cheesy and decadent—but it’s also packed with protein and made from scratch at home. Enjoy every satisfying bite, guilt-free. And if someone asks for seconds? That’s how you know you nailed it.