If you crave restaurant-quality comfort food at home, this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is about to become your new obsession. Imagine juicy baked chicken breasts coated with creamy ranch, bubbling provolone, and crowned with a seriously savory Parmesan crust that gets golden and crisp under the broiler. It looks impressive enough for company (trust me, your guests will swoon), but it comes together in just about half an hour, making it perfect for weeknights too. Whether you’re new to this dish or you’ve fallen for it at Longhorn, this homemade version packs all the same bold flavors and cravable textures—plus all the satisfaction of nailing a spot-on restaurant copycat!

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken lies in just how approachable the ingredients are. Each component brings its own magic—juiciness, creaminess, crunch, or rich, cheesy depth. Here’s what you need and why they matter:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as a lean, tender base ready to soak up all the flavors.
Ranch dressing: Adds a zesty, herbaceous twist and keeps the chicken incredibly moist.
Parmesan, grated: The star of the show—imparts sharp, nutty umami notes plus melts to create that signature golden crust.
Provolone cheese, shredded: Offers mild, melty richness that blankets the chicken in gooey, tangy bliss.
Breadcrumbs: Deliver crave-worthy crunch and help structure the exterior for that classic crisp finish.
Butter, melted: Bonds everything together and ensures the topping turns a decadent shade of golden brown.

How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Bake the Chicken Breasts

Preheat your oven to 375°F, then arrange the chicken breasts on a lined or lightly greased baking sheet. Pop them in the oven for roughly 20 minutes—just long enough for them to cook through but not turn dry. This first bake is what keeps the chicken juicy and sets the foundation for that all-important crust.

Step 2: Spread the Ranch and Provolone

Once your chicken is almost done, slather each breast generously with creamy ranch dressing, followed by an even sprinkling of shredded provolone cheese. The ranch melts right in, infusing every bite with tangy moisture, while the provolone starts to get delightfully gooey.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Crust

In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter until you have a coarse, slightly wet mixture. This trio is what delivers the ultimate savory crunch—you’ll want it well combined so it browns evenly under the broiler.

Step 4: Add the Crust and Broil

Generously spoon the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture over each chicken breast, lightly patting it down so it sticks and forms an even layer. Move the pan to the top rack of your oven and switch to broil for 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely: the crust will turn gloriously golden and bubbly in no time, finishing your Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with irresistible texture and flavor.

How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

Top your finished chicken with a little extra grated Parmesan, a handful of chopped fresh parsley, or just a crack of black pepper. These small touches don’t just make the dish look gorgeous—they amplify its flavors and give it that true restaurant finish.

Side Dishes

Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken absolutely loves company. Try serving it with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or a bright, crunchy salad to complement the richness. Even a pile of buttered green beans or a scoop of creamy risotto makes it a complete, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling a little extra? Slice the chicken and arrange it over a bed of pasta tossed with olive oil and lemon zest, or layer it onto a toasted bun with fresh greens for an unforgettable sandwich. However you style it, this dish always manages to steal the show!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken (lucky you), allow it to cool to room temperature and then transfer to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, staying moist and flavorful when stored properly.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze the cooked and cooled chicken breasts (crust and all) in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then move them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For best texture, warm leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, uncovered, to help the crust get crisp again. If you’re short on time, a few minutes in the microwave does the trick, but the broiler or toaster oven will revive that crunchy topping even more.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs work well and bring a bit more richness. Adjust bake time as thighs may need a few extra minutes in the oven to cook through.

What type of ranch dressing is best?

Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade ranch—just make sure it’s thick and flavorful to really soak into the chicken and support the provolone layer.

Could I use a different cheese besides provolone?

If provolone isn’t handy, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are solid swaps. Each brings their own scrumptious meltiness and won’t overpower the parmesan crust.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?

Make sure the chicken is hot when you add the crust, and broil it close to the heating element. The melted butter helps crisp things up, and broiling ensures a crunchy, not soggy, finish.

Can I prep Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken in advance?

You can bake the chicken a day ahead, refrigerate, then add the ranch, cheese, crust, and broil just before serving. This way, you’ll get maximum freshness and a perfect crust every time.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken enough—it’s a proven crowd-pleaser and so easy to master at home. Grab these simple ingredients, treat yourself to that irresistible golden crust, and enjoy a little restaurant magic in your own kitchen. Can’t wait for you to taste it!