Golden, crispy, and covered in a rich, cheesy crust, Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the ultimate comfort dish. The juicy, tender chicken breast is coated with a blend of flavorful seasonings, seared to perfection, and topped with a heavenly combination of Parmesan cheese, butter, and garlic. The result? A crispy, cheesy, and savory delight with just the right amount of crunch and creaminess in every bite.

This dish is a restaurant favorite, but it’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a gourmet-style meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors without complicated steps. The best part? It pairs well with various sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Why You’ll Love This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Crispy yet juicy: The perfect contrast of a crunchy Parmesan crust with a tender chicken interior.
Rich and cheesy: A combination of Parmesan and Provolone cheese adds depth and indulgence.
Restaurant-quality at home: No need to dine out when you can make this famous dish yourself.
Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
Pairs with everything: Serve it with pasta, veggies, or salad for a complete meal.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating the perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken requires a few essential tools to ensure a crispy, flavorful crust and juicy, tender chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-bottomed Pan: Ensures even heat distribution for a golden, crispy sear.
Meat Mallet: Helps pound the chicken to an even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking.
Mixing Bowls: For coating the chicken in breadcrumbs, cheese, and seasonings.
Tongs: Makes flipping the chicken easier without disturbing the crust.
Baking Sheet with Wire Rack: Helps keep the crust crispy if you need to finish the chicken in the oven.
Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor.

Having these tools ready will streamline the cooking process and make it much easier to achieve restaurant-quality results.

Preparation Tips

Pound the chicken evenly – This prevents uneven cooking, ensuring the chicken stays juicy without drying out.
Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting and texture.
Double-coat for extra crispiness – A second layer of the Parmesan crust adds more crunch and flavor.
Let the chicken rest – Allowing it to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if necessary to maintain a perfect sear.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll set yourself up for success and enjoy a crispy, cheesy masterpiece every time.

Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To recreate the bold flavors of Longhorn’s famous Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Parmesan Crust:

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon melted butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cheese Topping:

¼ cup Provolone cheese, shredded (or use slices)
2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra grated Parmesan

These ingredients combine to create a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful crust that perfectly complements the juicy chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces.
Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken evenly to about ½ inch thickness.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat.
Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust

In a small bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and garlic powder.
Stir until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping

Place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Sprinkle the Parmesan crust mixture evenly over each piece.
Top with shredded or sliced Provolone cheese.

Step 5: Broil to Perfection

Preheat the oven to broil on high.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust turns golden brown.
Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Now, enjoy your homemade Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken—crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor. Pre-packaged cheese doesn’t melt as well.
If you don’t have Panko breadcrumbs, substitute with regular breadcrumbs, but Panko provides the best crunch.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper to the Parmesan crust mixture.
Prefer a spicier kick? Sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper on the chicken before searing.
Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken, so always check the internal temperature (165°F).

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Skipping the Pounding Step

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks uniformly. If skipped, you may end up with dry edges and undercooked centers.

2. Overcrowding the Pan

Placing too many pieces in the skillet at once lowers the heat and prevents proper browning. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. Burning the Cheese Topping

Broiling happens quickly! Keep a close eye on the oven to prevent burning the cheese and crust.

4. Using Cold Chicken

Bringing the chicken to room temperature before cooking helps it cook more evenly and retain moisture.

5. Not Letting the Chicken Rest

Resting for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the perfect crispy, cheesy crust while keeping the chicken tender and juicy!

What to Serve With Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re craving something light and fresh or rich and hearty, here are some excellent choices.

🥗 8 Recommended Side Dishes

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture and buttery garlic flavor perfectly complement the crispy, cheesy chicken.

2. Roasted Vegetables

A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers adds color and freshness to your plate.

3. Buttery Parmesan Pasta

A simple pasta dish tossed in butter and Parmesan enhances the cheesy flavors of the chicken.

4. Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan shavings, and creamy Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast.

5. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter

A light, healthy side that balances the richness of the chicken with a zesty touch.

6. Creamed Spinach

Velvety and rich, this side dish pairs beautifully with the cheesy crust of the chicken.

7. Garlic Bread

Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy goodness.

8. Rice Pilaf

A light, flavorful rice dish makes a great base for this savory chicken.

Pair your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with any of these sides for a well-rounded and satisfying meal!

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, proper storage will help maintain the crispiness and flavor of your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Refrigeration: Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To prevent sticking, separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Instructions

Oven (Best Method): Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a quick and crispy result.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.
Microwave (Least Recommended): Use short 30-second intervals to avoid sogginess.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

These values are approximate and may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient substitutions.

Calories: ~450 kcal
Protein: ~45g
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fat: ~24g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Cholesterol: ~130mg
Sodium: ~750mg

This dish is high in protein and rich in flavor, making it a satisfying meal with a balanced nutritional profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will work, but they may take a bit longer to cook. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. What can I use instead of Provolone cheese?

You can substitute with mozzarella, Swiss, or even cheddar, depending on your taste preference.

3. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or replace them with crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option.

4. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the chicken and prepare the Parmesan crust mixture in advance. Store separately and cook fresh for best results.

5. Why is my crust not crispy enough?

Make sure to broil the chicken at the end and use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Overcrowding the pan can also prevent crispiness.

6. Can I make this in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook the seasoned chicken at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Add the cheese topping and air-fry for another 2-3 minutes until melted.

7. What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from burning?

Keep a close eye while broiling and place the baking rack on a middle or lower position to avoid overexposure to heat.

8. Is there a way to add more flavor to the crust?

Yes! Try adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra depth.

Conclusion

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. With its crispy Parmesan crust, melted cheese topping, and juicy chicken, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether served with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, this dish will impress family and guests alike.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to bring this delicious recipe to life in your kitchen. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy, and flavorful bite!