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This Parmesan-crusted chicken recipe captures the signature flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse's beloved dish. A golden, crispy crust loaded with savory Parmesan envelops juicy chicken breast, while melted provolone creates a creamy, indulgent layer that elevates this restaurant-inspired meal.
This recipe came from countless attempts to recreate that distinctive Longhorn Steakhouse flavor at home. The breakthrough came when discovering the right cheese blend and coating technique that creates their signature crust.
Essential Ingredients
- Italian Dressing: Acts as a flavor-packed marinade that tenderizes the chicken
- Ranch Dressing: Provides rich creaminess to both marinade and cheese mixture
- Chicken Breasts: Choose uniformly thin-sliced cutlets for even cooking
- Provolone: Fresh-sliced delivers superior melting quality
- Parmesan: Freshly grated creates the signature crispy crust
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for achieving that light, crispy texture
- Garlic Powder: Adds balanced savory notes throughout
- Butter: Brings richness and helps create golden browning
Preparation Method
- Marination:
- Blend Italian and ranch dressings, coat chicken completely. Marinate minimum 30 minutes.
- Cheese Sauce:
- Combine provolone, Parmesan and ranch until smooth and melted.
- Crust Mixture:
- Mix Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder and melted butter thoroughly.
- Cooking:
- Sear marinated chicken in hot skillet until golden.
- Finishing:
- Top with cheese sauce, add Panko mixture, broil until browned.
The secret to achieving restaurant-quality results lies in proper marination time. An overnight soak allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
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Serving Suggestions
Enhance the meal with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and vibrant green vegetables like steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with alternative cheese combinations like Gruyere or Mozzarella. Add heat with cayenne in the breading or try herbs like thyme in the cheese sauce.
Storage Instructions
Keep leftovers sealed in the refrigerator up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain crispiness.
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This proven recipe delivers consistent restaurant-quality results. The combination of proper technique and quality ingredients creates an impressive dish worthy of any special occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it possible to make this chicken ahead of time?
- Yes, marinate the chicken the night before and get the sauce and breadcrumb topping ready. But put it all together and broil it right before serving.
- → What side dishes complement this Parmesan Chicken?
- It goes great with veggies like roasted asparagus, creamy mashed potatoes, fresh salads, or even steamed vegetables.
- → How can I tell if the chicken is cooked all the way through?
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F.
- → Can I swap panko crumbs with regular ones?
- Absolutely, but panko gives a crispier, airier texture more like the original restaurant dish.
- → What makes the marinade a mix of ranch and Italian dressings?
- This combo gives the chicken a tangy, herby taste while keeping it nice and juicy as it cooks.