When it comes to homestyle cooking that brings both comfort and a touch of gourmet flair, the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken stands out as a winner. This dish, inspired by the flavors of Longhorn Steakhouse, combines tender, marinated chicken breasts with a rich blend of cheeses and a crispy, savory crumb topping. It’s a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary delight, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you just want to treat yourself to something extraordinary.
I vividly remember the first time I had this dish at Longhorn Steakhouse. The chicken was incredibly juicy, the cheese melted perfectly, and the crumb topping added just the right amount of crunch. It was a memorable meal shared with friends, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After several attempts and tweaks, I finally perfected the recipe, and it’s now a beloved staple in my kitchen. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of that wonderful evening and the joy of sharing good food with good company.
Ingredients
Chicken:
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ¾ inch thickness
1 cup shredded provolone
Marinade:
½ cup olive oil
½ cup prepared ranch dressing
3 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp vinegar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp pepper
Ranch Spread:
¼ cup grated Parmesan
¼ cup ranch dressing
Parmesan Crumb Topping:
½ cup panko bread crumbs
1 tsp garlic salt
⅓ cup shredded Parmesan
2 Tbsp melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken: Begin by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine ½ cup olive oil, ½ cup prepared ranch dressing, 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon vinegar, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for 2-3 hours or overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
Cooking the Chicken
Grilling the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a grill pan or even bake it in the oven.
Preparing the Ranch Spread
Mix the Ranch Spread: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the ranch spread. In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup grated Parmesan and ¼ cup ranch dressing. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Preparing the Parmesan Crumb Topping
Mix the Crumb Topping: In another bowl, combine ½ cup panko bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic salt, ⅓ cup shredded Parmesan, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened. This mixture will create the delicious, crispy topping for the chicken.
Assembly and Final Cooking
Preheat the Broiler: Position the rack in the center of your oven and preheat the broiler. This will ensure even browning of the crumb topping.
Prepare the Chicken for Broiling: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer the breasts to an oven-safe casserole dish. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the prepared ranch spread on each chicken breast. This layer will add a creamy and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Add the Cheese and Crumb Topping: Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of shredded provolone. Then, evenly distribute the Parmesan crumb topping over the cheese. Press down lightly to ensure the topping adheres.
Broil the Chicken: Place the casserole dish under the preheated broiler. Broil for a few minutes, watching closely, until the cheese melts and the crumb topping turns a light golden brown. This step only takes a few minutes, so be careful not to let it burn.
Serving
Serve Immediately: Once the cheese is melted and the topping is golden brown, remove the dish from the oven. Serve the chicken immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Variations and Substitutions
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:
Cheese Variations: While provolone is recommended for its melting properties and mild flavor, you can also use mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Marinade Adjustments: For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also use balsamic vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs to make the dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Low-Fat Option: Use light ranch dressing and reduce the amount of cheese and butter to make a lighter version of this dish.
Conclusion
The Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish for any occasion. The tender, marinated chicken, rich and creamy ranch spread, melty provolone, and crispy Parmesan crumb topping come together to create a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated.
This recipe is particularly appealing because it combines ease of preparation with gourmet results. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow, making it accessible for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, the customizable nature of the dish means you can adapt it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
In conclusion, the Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary experience that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress and become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this homestyle favorite.
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