Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
If you’ve ever dined at LongHorn Steakhouse, you’ve probably come across one of their most famous menu items the Parmesan Crusted Chicken. With its juicy grilled chicken base, gooey layer of cheese, and irresistible golden breadcrumb topping, it’s no surprise this dish has developed such a loyal following.
The good news? You don’t need to head to the restaurant to enjoy it anymore. With this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, you can recreate that same cheesy, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth flavor at home in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, this dish feels indulgent, impressive, and totally restaurant-worthy without the takeout bill.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
For the Cheese Layer:
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Parmesan-Panko Topping:
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season and Grill the Chicken
Preheat a grill pan (or large skillet) over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this seasoned butter mixture onto each chicken breast.
Place the chicken onto the hot grill pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will finish in the oven.
2. Add the Cheese Layer
Combine the Parmesan and provolone cheese in a mixing bowl. Once the chicken is flipped and nearly cooked, top each piece with the cheese mixture. Let it melt slightly over the heat for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the Crispy Topping
In another bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan, and melted butter until crumbly. This buttery breadcrumb mix is what gives the dish its signature crunch.
4. Broil to Perfection
Transfer the chicken breasts to a foil-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the Parmesan-Panko topping generously over each piece. Place the baking sheet under your oven’s broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until the topping turns golden and crispy. Keep a close eye — it can burn quickly!
5. Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle, keeping the chicken tender. Serve hot and enjoy the restaurant-quality flavors.
About the Recipe
A Restaurant Favorite at Home
The LongHorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken has earned legendary status on the menu for good reason. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, melty cheese, and a crunchy Parmesan crust hits all the right notes. This copycat recipe brings those same flavors to your table in less time than it would take to order takeout.
Variations to Try
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs for a juicier version, or try it with pork chops for something unique.
- Cheese Swap: If you don’t have provolone, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great substitutes.
- Extra Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the breadcrumb topping for a little heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the Panko with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly crust.
Helpful Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer and remove chicken when it reaches 165°F. This ensures it stays juicy.
- Broil Carefully: The topping can go from golden to burnt in seconds. Stay nearby while broiling.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheese and breadcrumb topping in advance, then assemble and broil just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic butter rice
- A crisp Caesar or house salad
- Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus
- Buttery dinner rolls to soak up any cheesy goodness
Nutrition Highlights
At around 328 calories per serving, this dish offers a satisfying balance of protein (19g) and indulgence. While it’s not the lightest recipe, it’s perfect as a main dish paired with a veggie or salad for balance.
Conclusion
Bringing restaurant-quality meals into your own kitchen is one of the most satisfying parts of cooking. With this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, you’ll enjoy all the cheesy, crispy, golden flavors you love from LongHorn Steakhouse without having to leave home.
It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Give it a try, and you might just find this dish becomes a regular star on your menu rotation. And who knows? Your family may even say it’s better than the restaurant version!
