If you love restaurant-style dinners made at home, this copycat parmesan-crusted chicken brings all the flavor of the popular Longhorn dish straight to your kitchen. This recipe delivers tender chicken topped with a creamy Parmesan-ranch layer and a buttery, golden crust, giving you a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet simple enough for weeknight cooking.
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Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This dish has earned a loyal following for good reason. It’s a winning combination of juicy chicken, a savory cheese topping, and a crispy crust that browns beautifully under the broiler. Each layer adds its own character, tangy ranch notes from the marinade, melty Parmesan richness, and crunchy panko texture, making every bite balanced and satisfying.
Home cooks love this recipe because:
- It delivers true restaurant flavor without complicated steps.
- The marinade keeps the chicken extra juicy, even after broiling.
- The cheese topping melts into a creamy, flavorful layer.
- The buttery breadcrumb crust adds crunch without deep-frying.
- It pairs with almost anything, from potatoes to simple veggies.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish brings a comforting, reliable crowd-pleaser to the table.
Ingredients for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This recipe uses familiar ingredients that build layers of flavor while keeping the process easy for everyday cooking.
Chicken & Marinade
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Parmesan Topping
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded provolone cheese
Crispy Breadcrumb Crust
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
A few simple swaps can help you customize this dish based on dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what you have on hand.
Cheese Options
Provolone melts smoothly and gives the topping a mild, creamy flavor. If you prefer something stronger or simply want to use what’s in your refrigerator, mozzarella, Swiss, or Munster work well as alternatives.
Ranch Dressing
Ranch adds tang and richness to both the marinade and topping. You can replace it with:
- A yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version
- Caesar dressing for a more savory edge
- A homemade herb dressing if you’re avoiding bottled sauces
Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs create the signature crispy crust. For alternatives, try:
- Crushed pork rinds for a low-carb/keto option
- Regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture
- Crushed crackers if you prefer more buttery flavor
Butter
Butter helps the crust brown beautifully. For a lighter take, you can use:
- Olive oil (milder crunch)
- Avocado oil (neutral, high-heat safe)
Flavor Add-Ins
Enhance the topping with optional extras like:
- A pinch of smoked paprika
- Chopped fresh parsley
- A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
These steps ensure that each layer of the dish — marinade, cheese topping, and crust — builds flavor and texture.
Step 1 – Prepare and Marinate the Chicken
Pound the chicken breasts until they’re about ½-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Mix the ranch dressing, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and pepper, then coat the chicken thoroughly.
Let the chicken marinade for at least 30 minutes, though several hours or overnight deepens the flavor and makes the meat even juicier.
Step 2 – Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 4–5 minutes per side. The goal is to create a golden crust on the outside while leaving the center tender and just cooked through.
Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet or oven-safe pan.
Step 3 – Mix the Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, grated parmesan, and provolone. Gently warm this mixture to soften it — either in a microwave-safe bowl for a few seconds or over very low heat on the stovetop. You want the cheese to blend but not melt completely.
Spread this creamy mixture evenly over each seared chicken breast.
Step 4 – Prepare the Crispy Panko Crust
Stir together the melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper. The crumbs should look lightly coated and slightly glossy.
Sprinkle this mixture generously over the parmesan topping.
Step 5 – Broil Until Golden
Place the chicken under a low broil (around 450°F) for 3–4 minutes. Watch closely — the crust should turn a warm golden brown without burning.
Once the topping is crisp and bubbling, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the pounding step. Even thickness ensures faster, juicier results.
- Avoid over-searing. Too much heat can dry out the chicken before broiling.
- Warm the cheese mixture slightly. It spreads more smoothly and melts evenly.
- Keep an eye on the broiler. A minute too long can turn the crust from golden to burnt.
- Use freshly grated parmesan. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that melt less smoothly.
- Let the chicken rest 3–5 minutes. This keeps juices inside where they belong.
Flavor Variations
Looking for fun ways to personalize this dish? Try one of these variations:
Italian-Herb Crusted
Mix basil, oregano, and parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for an herb-forward flavor.
Garlic-Butter Lovers
Add an extra teaspoon of garlic powder to the crust or stir roasted garlic into the cheese topping.
Spicy Parmesan Crust
Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne into the panko mixture for a subtle kick.
Creamy Spinach Topping
Fold sautéed spinach into the parmesan mixture for added richness and color.
Smoky BBQ Variation
Drizzle a touch of smoky barbecue sauce under the cheese layer before adding the crust.
Serving Suggestions
This entrée pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Try serving it with:
- Mashed or baked potatoes
- Creamy or cheesy pasta
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
- A crisp mixed-greens salad
- Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
For a lighter plate, pair with a simple salad and lemony roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, add mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to maintain the crisp topping.
Freezer Storage
Freeze fully cooked chicken (without the crust turning soggy) by wrapping each piece tightly and storing up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven directly from frozen at 375°F until warmed through, adding a few minutes under the broiler to re-crisp the top.
Meal-Prep Tip
Prepare the chicken and cheese layer ahead of time, but store the breadcrumbs separately. Add the crust just before baking or broiling.
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Ultimate Copycat Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This ultimate copycat parmesan crusted chicken delivers tender, juicy chicken topped with a creamy parmesan-ranch layer and a golden, buttery panko crust for the perfect restaurant-style comfort meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for marinade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Fresh ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness.
- Mix ranch, olive oil, Worcestershire, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, and pepper, then coat chicken and marinate 30 minutes or longer.
- Sear chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side and transfer to a baking sheet.
- Mix ranch, parmesan, and provolone; warm slightly and spread over chicken.
- Combine melted butter, panko, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; sprinkle over chicken.
- Broil on low for 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Rest chicken 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, keep a close eye on the broiler to prevent over-browning. Freshly grated parmesan melts more smoothly and gives superior flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broiled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 41g |
| Carbs | 15g |
| Fat | 33g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
(Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Other Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Ultimate Mini Grilled Cheese Hawaiian Rolls
- Easy Roast Turkey Breast with Garlic Herb Butter
- Delicious Sweet Honey Corn Casserole
FAQ About Parmesan Crusted Chicken
What makes this parmesan crusted chicken taste like the Longhorn version?
The signature flavor comes from the combination of ranch, parmesan, provolone, and the buttery panko topping. These layers melt together into a creamy center with a crispy crust, closely resembling the restaurant dish. The quick sear before broiling also builds a deeper savory flavor.
Can I make this without a broiler?
Yes. If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the chicken at a high temperature (about 450°F) for 6–8 minutes until the topping browns. It may not crisp quite as much, but you’ll still get a delicious crust with good texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs stay very juicy and work well with this recipe. Simply pound them lightly for even thickness and adjust searing time if needed; thighs typically cook a bit faster due to their shape.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Marinating helps significantly, as does pounding the meat evenly. Avoid over-searing and watch closely during broiling. Letting the chicken rest before cutting also keeps the juices from escaping too quickly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes — it reheats nicely in the oven. For best results, store the chicken and topping together but keep the breadcrumbs separate until you’re ready to reheat and serve. This keeps the crust crisp rather than soggy.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan crusted chicken is a comforting, restaurant-inspired meal that home cooks can easily master. With its juicy chicken, creamy cheese topping, and perfectly crisp crust, this dish delivers a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. It’s versatile enough for weeknight cooking but impressive enough for serving guests, making it a true staple recipe worth keeping in your rotation.For more inspiration, check out this Easy Hashbrown Casserole or explore more on Pinterest for your next meal idea!