Name: Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces skinless/boneless chicken breasts; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/3 cup ranch dressing; 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 Tablespoon minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (chopped into bits); 1/2 cup Provolone cheese (chopped into bits); 6 Tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch salad dressing (regular Ranch is fine as well); 4 Tablespoons melted butter; 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Introduction to Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Recreating your favorite restaurant dishes at home can be a delightful experience, and there's something truly special about whipping up a classic dish like Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Not only do you get to savor that rich, cheesy goodness on your dinner table, but you also gain the satisfaction of cooking it yourself. Imagine having a deliciously marinated and perfectly crusted chicken breast right in your kitchen, with ingredients you trust!

Taking the time to make comfort food at home allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Love a little more garlic? Throw in some extra minced garlic! Prefer bolder cheese flavors? Swap the provolone for something stronger, like aged cheddar. These personal touches can elevate a comforting recipe into something uniquely yours.

Moreover, this homemade version is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long week. By controlling your ingredients, you can also make healthier choices without sacrificing flavor. Plus, sharing this dish with family can spark joy and create memories that go beyond the meal itself.

Ready to dive into this copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken recipe? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating the perfect copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential ingredients you'll need

Chicken Breasts: 4 skinless and boneless, pounded to an even thickness for quick cooking.
Marinade Components:
⅓ cup olive oil
⅓ cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Salt/Pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Crust:
½ cup each of Parmesan and Provolone cheese, chopped
6 tablespoons buttermilk ranch (or regular ranch)
4 tablespoons melted butter
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons garlic powder

Optional ingredients for customization

Cheese Swaps: If Provolone isn’t available, feel free to use Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Herbal Additions: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the crust for an aromatic twist.
Extra Crunch: For a bit of heat, toss in red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture, giving your crust a spicy edge.

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! Enjoy cooking this delightful dish that feels just like dining out at Longhorn without even leaving your kitchen. For more tips on perfecting this recipe, check out sources like Serious Eats for additional inspiration!

Step-by-step preparation of Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Creating a mouthwatering Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home is an enjoyable experience that brings together delicious flavors and a touch of culinary finesse. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your chicken comes out tender, flavorful, and topped with that irresistible crispy Parmesan crust!

Prepare the chicken marinade

To start, whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until they’re well-combined. This includes olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic, among others. The marinade is where the magic begins — the flavors will penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and aromatic.

Tip: If you’re short on time, using store-bought Italian salad dressing works great as a quick substitute!

Next, place your skinless, boneless chicken breasts in a gallon freezer bag. Add a little air, seal it tightly, and gently pound the chicken to about a half-inch thickness. This step not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also tenderizes it.

Marinate the chicken

Now it’s time to add that delicious marinade. Seal the bag again, making sure to expel as much air as possible. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes — although overnight is even better for those deeper flavors.

Sear the chicken for flavor

Heat vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully place the marinated chicken into the skillet. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until that gorgeous golden-brown color appears. Avoid the temptation to move it around too much; let it develop that rich crust! Once seared, transfer the chicken to a lightly greased baking sheet and tent it with foil to keep warm.

Prepare the Parmesan crust mixture

As the chicken rests, preheat your oven to a low broil (about 450°F). In a bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, Provolone cheese, and ranch dressing. Microwave this mixture in 15-second increments until it’s melted, stirring in between. This gooey cheese mixture is key to replicating that beloved Longhorn dish!

In another bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs. This combination adds that delightful crunch to your copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken.

Broil the chicken to perfection

Now comes the exciting part! Spread the cheese mixture generously over the chicken, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Broil the chicken in your preheated oven for about 3-4 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it — it can go from perfection to burnt in a flash!

Serve your culinary masterpiece hot, perhaps alongside some Garlic Butter Pasta or Roasted Vegetables, and enjoy the satisfying compliments you’ll receive for this dinner delight!

Variations on Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Keto-friendly Versions

If you're following a keto diet, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors of copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Consider replacing the traditional breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds. They add a satisfying crunch and keep the dish low in carbs. You can also switch out the ranch dressing for a keto-friendly version to ensure you're keeping your macros in check. Avocado oil can replace vegetable oil for a healthier fat option, too!

Vegetarian Adaptations

For a vegetarian twist, try using cauliflower steaks or portobello mushrooms in place of chicken. Marinate them just as you would the chicken, and follow the same steps to top them with the delicious Parmesan crust. You’ll get the same great flavor while enjoying a meat-free meal. Pair with a fresh green salad for a fully satisfying experience!

Feel free to experiment, as these variations will keep your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken experience fresh and exciting!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Tips for Achieving the Best Crust

To achieve an irresistible crust on your copycat Longhorn Parmesan crusted chicken, start by using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones — they provide that extra crunch! Mixing in melted butter and garlic powder elevates the flavor immensely, creating a golden, delicious topping. Don’t forget to place the chicken under the broiler for a few minutes to achieve that magical browning effect, but keep a close eye on it, as it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

How to Ensure the Chicken is Juicy

For tender, juicy chicken, marinate it for at least 30 minutes, or better yet, overnight to infuse maximum flavor and moisture. When cooking, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If pan-searing, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving — this helps retain the juices. A great pairing would be Garlic Butter Pasta, which complements the dish beautifully!

Don't hesitate to check out additional resources like the USDA guidelines for safe cooking practices to help elevate your culinary skills!

Serving suggestions for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Ideal Side Dishes to Complement the Chicken

Serving your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a breeze with the right sides! Consider pairing it with:

Creamy mashed potatoes drizzled with garlic-infused butter.
Fresh, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a pop of color and nutrition.
A light Caesar salad for some crunch and zest.

These combinations not only balance the richness of the chicken but also create a visually appealing plate!

Pairing Options for a Complete Meal

To elevate your meal, think about adding:

Fluffy rice pilaf or garlic butter pasta for the perfect carb companion.
A refreshing lemonade or sparkling water with a splash of fruit can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

With these suggestions, your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will shine at the dinner table, making every bite delightful! For even more inspiration, check out these fantastic side recipes, as they can complement your dish perfectly!

Time Breakdown for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Preparation Time

To get started on your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, set aside about 35 minutes for preparation. This includes marinating the chicken to infuse wonderful flavors into every bite.

Cooking Time

Once that marinade has worked its magic, the cooking time is relatively quick at just 20 minutes. This includes searing the chicken to golden perfection and baking the delicious Parmesan crust.

Total Time

All in all, your copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken will take approximately 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels like a restaurant treat!

If you’re looking for a delightful side to pair with this dish, consider whipping up some garlic butter pasta or roasted vegetables. For further inspiration, check out this Pasta Guide for the perfect complements.

Nutritional Facts for Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal like Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken, knowing the nutritional facts can help keep your meal plan on track. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this flavorful dish contains approximately 660 calories, making it a satisfying choice for dinner.

Protein Content

Packed with lean chicken breast, this dish delivers around 40 grams of protein per serving—excellent for muscle repair and growth!

Sodium Levels

Be mindful of sodium content; this recipe typically contains about 1,200 mg of sodium per serving, which is around half the daily recommended limit for an average adult. For more information on maintaining a balanced diet, check out the CDC’s recommendations on sodium intake.

Enjoy this scrumptious recipe while keeping your nutrition goals in mind! If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider swapping in homemade marinades or reducing the cheese slightly.

FAQs about Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Can I use different cheeses for the crust?

Absolutely! While our recipe features Parmesan and Provolone, you can easily substitute other melting cheeses like Swiss, Mozzarella, or even Munster for a unique flavor profile. Feel free to get creative; cheese is all about personal preference!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to keep that crispy crust intact. You can also freeze the chicken for longer storage—simply thaw before reheating.

What can I pair this dish with?

This mouthwatering chicken shines when paired with sides like garlic butter pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Have a favorite side? Let us know in the comments or check out our other recipes for more inspiration!

For additional tips, you might want to explore The Kitchn for delicious side pairings or Serious Eats for cooking technique refinement!

Conclusion on Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

In closing, this copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delightful way to bring restaurant flavor into your home. With its savory marinade and crunchy cheese topping, it's sure to impress your friends and family. Pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy!