Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s an all-in-one combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. The chicken stays tender and juicy while the rich ranch cream sauce and bubbly melted cheese bring a comforting richness. That golden Parmesan cracker crust on top adds the perfect crunch. It feels like restaurant-quality comfort food, but it’s easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup ranch dressing

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese

• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. I season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown. After searing, I transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

3. In a small bowl, I mix the ranch dressing and sour cream. I spread this creamy mixture over the top of each chicken breast.

4. I sprinkle the provolone and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.

5. In a separate bowl, I combine the crushed crackers with melted butter and press this mixture over the cheese layer to create that crunchy topping.

6. I bake the chicken for 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the topping is golden and bubbly.

7. Once out of the oven, I garnish with chopped parsley and serve it hot with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 530 kcal per serving

Variations

• Cheese Swap: Sometimes I use mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses if I don’t have provolone on hand.

• Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper adds a gentle heat to balance the richness.

• Herb Addition: I occasionally mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cracker topping for extra aroma and depth.

• Crust Options: Panko breadcrumbs make a great substitute for Ritz crackers if I want a lighter crunch.

• Extra Sauce: For an extra creamy dish, I double the ranch and sour cream mixture and serve some on the side.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though the crust may soften a bit. I recommend freezing it before baking and then baking straight from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.

• Reheating: I reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps keep the crust crispy. The microwave works in a pinch but may soften the topping.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I sometimes use boneless, skinless thighs for an even juicier version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may need a few extra minutes.

What’s the best way to crush the crackers?

I put the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them evenly. It’s quick and mess-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prep everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, I just pop it in the oven. It’s great for prepping dinner in advance.

Is there a lower-fat version of this recipe?

To lighten it up, I use reduced-fat sour cream and ranch, and opt for a lighter cheese blend. The flavors are still great, just a little less indulgent.

What sides go best with this chicken?

I usually serve it with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a side salad. Anything simple and fresh works well to balance the richness of the chicken.

Conclusion

This Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect recipe when I want something rich, flavorful, and a little indulgent. The crispy cracker crust and cheesy, creamy topping elevate a simple chicken breast into a memorable meal. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish always delivers on comfort and taste — and it’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch right in my own kitchen.