Introduction
If you love the savory and cheesy goodness of Longhorn’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’re in for a treat! This copycat recipe brings a deliciously crispy and flavorful twist to tender chicken breasts, all topped with a creamy ranch dressing, provolone, and a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
4 slices provolone cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
45 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a hot skillet, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. Spread a layer of ranch dressing over each chicken breast.
5. Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
6. In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Broil for 2-3 minutes to get the topping golden and crispy.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Season Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Sear Chicken
In a hot skillet, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
Step 4: Add Ranch Dressing
Spread a layer of ranch dressing over each chicken breast, ensuring an even coating.
Step 5: Place Provolone Cheese
Place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
Step 6: Prepare Parmesan Mixture
In a small bowl, combine shredded Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken.
Step 7: Bake Chicken
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Broil for Crispiness
After baking, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to get the topping golden and crispy.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Parmesan crusted chicken hot and enjoy your delicious meal!
Notes
Note 1: Chicken Thickness
Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts; thicker pieces may require additional time in the oven.
Note 2: Additional Flavor
For more flavor, consider adding additional herbs or spices to the Parmesan mixture.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Note 4: Storage
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the chicken evenly.
Seasoning
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before cooking.
Searing
Sear the seasoned chicken breasts in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step adds a depth of flavor and helps lock in moisture.
Baking
Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish and layer with ranch dressing and slices of provolone cheese before baking them in the oven for 20-25 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Broiling
After baking, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden and crispy topping.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute provolone cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.
What can I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This dish pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and toppings in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Conclusion
This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delightful and easy dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home. With its crispy, cheesy topping and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it alongside your choice of sides for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Try this delicious twist by seasoning salmon fillets and topping them with Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, then bake until flaky and golden.
Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries
Slice zucchini into sticks, coat them in ranch dressing, and use a mixture of panko, Parmesan, and seasonings for a crunchy side dish that pairs well with chicken.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill bell peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, then bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.
Baked Chicken Parmesan
For a classic Italian favorite, bread chicken cutlets with seasoned breadcrumbs and cheese, then bake and serve over pasta with marinara sauce.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli
Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese before roasting for a flavorful and healthy side dish that complements the chicken.