If you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, the Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need to add some serious flavor to your dinner table. This dish brings together tender, perfectly seared chicken breasts topped with a creamy ranch and Parmesan layer, all beneath a golden, cheesy, garlicky crust that bakes to bubbling perfection. Each bite combines crispy, savory, and aromatic notes that make this recipe a beloved favorite, perfect for impressing family or guests without fussing over complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The wonderful thing about the Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is how it uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that are simple but essential. Each ingredient plays a special role, contributing not just flavor but texture and visual appeal, ensuring your dish turns out as irresistible as it tastes.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a perfect sear that locks in juices and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a fragrant, savory undertone that’s essential for depth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a mild smoky flavor and beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick to round out the spice profile.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Creamy base that adds tanginess and moisture under the crust.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it creates a rich layer of flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stretch and a mild creaminess.
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch and golden crust texture.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Keeps the crust moist and helps it crisp up perfectly in the oven.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that round out the flavor with earthy notes.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Fresh garlic gives the crust an aromatic punch that pairs brilliantly with the cheeses.
How to Make Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness. This step is crucial because it ensures they cook evenly without drying out. Then, season both sides generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This dry rub builds a flavorful foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This locks in juices and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Once seared, remove the skillet from heat but keep the chicken inside—you’ll finish cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Spread the Ranch-Parmesan Layer
In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing together with the grated Parmesan cheese until combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of each seared chicken breast. This creamy layer will add tang and richness under the cheesy crust, keeping the chicken wonderfully moist.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese and Breadcrumb Topping
In another bowl, combine shredded provolone, shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until well mixed. Then, generously spoon the mixture over the ranch-Parmesan layer on each chicken breast. This topping will transform into a golden, bubbly, garlicky crust in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place the skillet in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) so it’s fully cooked yet tender. The topping should be beautifully golden and bubbly, signaling that cheesy, garlicky goodness is ready to be devoured. After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes—it helps lock in the juices before serving.
How to Serve Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top add a gorgeous vivid green pop and brighten the dish’s flavor profile. A small drizzle of extra olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can also lift the rich, creamy layers.
Side Dishes
This chicken is fantastic alongside classic creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted veggies for a hearty, comforting meal. For a lighter twist, a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans provide fresh contrast that complements the cheesy crust beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the chicken on a rustic wooden board surrounded by roasted cherry tomatoes and a few lemon wedges for an inviting family-style setup. You can also slice the chicken thinly and serve it over a bed of cooked pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh herbs for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save leftovers for longer, wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They will maintain their texture and flavor for up to 2 months. To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps preserve the crispy crust better than the microwave, which can make the topping soggy. Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning if needed.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of provolone and mozzarella?
Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella provide creamy meltiness, you can swap in cheddar, gouda, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. Just keep the texture and melting point in mind to maintain that perfect crust.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing the chicken is key for locking in juices and building flavor. It creates a delicious crust that adds texture and prevents the chicken from drying during baking, so we highly recommend not skipping this step.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of regular panko to keep the crispy crust while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
How long can I marinate the chicken in ranch dressing?
Marinating for 1 to 3 hours in the ranch dressing will infuse extra flavor and tenderness. Just be sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning and searing to get that perfect golden crust.
Can this recipe be doubled for a bigger crowd?
Definitely! Just make sure to use a larger oven-safe skillet or transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Adjust baking time slightly depending on the thickness and how many pieces you cook.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of garlic, Parmesan, and a golden cheesy crust on juicy chicken, and this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe captures that magic perfectly. It’s one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again, whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!
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Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers a deliciously cheesy and crispy baked chicken breast coated with a savory blend of ranch dressing, Parmesan, provolone, mozzarella, and a seasoned panko breadcrumb crust. The chicken is first seared to lock in flavor and then baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, bubbly topping and juicy meat inside—a perfect main course for an easy American-style dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Toppings
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides thoroughly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to boost the flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. Remove the skillet from heat once seared.
- Mix and Spread Ranch-Parmesan Layer: In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing and grated Parmesan cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of each seared chicken breast, creating a creamy base for the crust.
- Prepare and Add Cheese Crust: In another bowl, mix shredded provolone, shredded mozzarella, panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic together. Spoon this breadcrumb and cheese mixture generously over the ranch-Parmesan layer on each chicken breast.
- Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through: Transfer the skillet carefully to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures the juices redistribute and the chicken remains moist and tender.
Notes
- This chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
- For additional depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in ranch dressing for a few hours prior to cooking.
- Using an oven-safe skillet simplifies the cooking process by allowing seamless transition from stovetop searing to oven baking.
