Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach 165°F internally.

Q2: How do I keep the breadcrumb topping crispy when reheating leftovers?

Reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy. A toaster oven also works well.

Q3: What can I substitute for ranch dressing in the topping?

You can use Caesar dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a mixture of sour cream and Italian herbs for a similar creamy and tangy flavor.

Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken

Description

A beginner-friendly Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe inspired by Longhorn Steakhouse, featuring juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, crispy topping.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crust)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer skillet to a 400°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
In a bowl, mix ranch dressing, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Add mozzarella if using.
In another bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter to create the crust.
Remove chicken from oven, spread Parmesan topping over each piece, then sprinkle breadcrumb mixture on top and press lightly.
Broil for 2-3 minutes until topping is golden and crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with your choice of sides.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Let chicken rest before adding toppings for juicier results.
Fresh Parmesan gives better flavor and texture than pre-shredded.
You can prepare the topping and crust in advance and refrigerate.
Use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking & Broiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: Not specified
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: Not specified
Unsaturated Fat: Not specified
Trans Fat: Not specified
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: Not specified