If you’ve ever found yourself craving that perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness with tender, juicy chicken, then you’re in for a real treat. The Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe brings the irresistible flavors of a classic steakhouse favorite right to your kitchen. Featuring a luscious Parmesan and provolone crust atop perfectly marinated chicken breasts, this dish is an absolute showstopper for any dinner occasion. It’s a combination of crispy, cheesy topping with savory, well-seasoned chicken underneath — all made at home so you can impress your friends and family without a trip to the restaurant.

Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor, texture, and color. Every component plays a crucial role, from the marinade that tenderizes and infuses the chicken with zest, to the rich blend of cheeses in the Parmesan crust giving that signature savory crunch.

4 skinless/boneless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base that’s perfect for marinating and crusting.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Helps in getting that golden sear on the chicken while cooking.
Marinade ingredients: Olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, distilled white vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and pepper together bring a tangy, savory depth.
Parmesan crust components: Parmesan and provolone cheeses chopped into bits, buttermilk ranch salad dressing, melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder create a crispy, cheesy, flavorful topping.

How to Make Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinade

Whisk all the marinade ingredients—olive oil, ranch dressing, Worcestershire sauce, distilled white vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and pepper—until smooth and well combined. Place the chicken breasts in a gallon freezer bag, remove the air, and seal tightly. Pound the chicken to an even thickness of about half an inch for uniform cooking. Once flattened, sprinkle salt and pepper lightly on each side. Transfer the chicken to a fresh freezer bag, pour in the marinade, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or ideally overnight to let those flavors soak in.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a skillet—cast iron works wonders here—heat 2 to 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place each chicken breast in the hot skillet, leaving them undisturbed to develop a beautiful golden-brown sear for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Adjust the heat if the skillet gets too hot; the goal is a gorgeous crust without burning. When the chicken is cooked through but still juicy, transfer it to a separate pan or baking sheet and tent with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the Parmesan crust.

Step 3: Add the Parmesan Crust

Preheat your oven to a low broil setting at 450°F. Combine Parmesan cheese, provolone cheese, and ranch dressing in a bowl. Microwave this mixture in 15-second bursts, stirring in between, until the cheese melts into a slightly lumpy but spreadable consistency. Spread this cheesy mixture evenly over the tops of each chicken breast. In a separate bowl, stir together melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs until well combined. Spoon this crumb topping over the cheese layer.

Step 4: Broil to Perfection

Place the chicken under the broiler for 3 to 4 minutes, watching carefully as the breadcrumb topping turns golden and crispy. This step delivers that signature crunch and golden brown finish that makes the Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe truly unforgettable. Once slightly browned and bubbly, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a moment before serving.

How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the Parmesan crust. A light drizzle of extra lemon juice right before serving can also brighten up the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Traditional mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, offering creamy comfort that balances the crispy, cheesy chicken. Roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad also work wonderfully to add texture and a pop of vibrant color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts and arrange them fanned out on a platter, topped with extra cheese and herbs. You can even place each breast on a bed of garlic butter rice or creamy polenta for an elegant presentation that feels restaurant-quality but made comfortably at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover chicken covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors may intensify overnight, making your reheated meal just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To maintain the crispy crust and avoid drying out the chicken, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of provolone?

Absolutely! Swiss, mozzarella, or Munster make excellent substitutes without sacrificing flavor or texture in the Parmesan crust.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken overnight?

While an overnight marinate deepens the flavor and tenderness, a minimum of 30 minutes still yields delicious results for a quicker meal.

Can I bake the chicken instead of pan searing?

Yes, baking at 425°F for 15 to 18 minutes in a lightly greased oven-safe dish with a splash of water works very well. Just continue with the crust and broil step afterward.

What if I don’t have buttermilk ranch dressing for the crust?

Regular ranch dressing is fine to use here. You can also experiment with herb cheese dressings for a unique twist.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The meat should be firm, opaque, and the juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is more than just a dish — it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that brings a favorite restaurant classic right to your home kitchen. Give it a try and watch as your loved ones fall head over heels for this combination of tender chicken and crispy, cheesy topping. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe