Name: Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn: Recipe & Easy Steps
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and halved); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 cup ranch dressing; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional); 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish brings together everything I crave in one bite—tender chicken, a crispy parmesan coating, and that buttery ranch-mozzarella topping. It’s got just the right balance of flavor and texture. The best part? It feels like a restaurant-quality meal but is super simple to make at home. I can serve it for a regular weeknight dinner or dress it up for a more special occasion. Either way, it’s always a hit.

Ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Garlic powder
Shredded parmesan cheese
Panko breadcrumbs
Ranch dressing
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Sour cream
Butter

Directions

I start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness and seasoning both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Then I sear the chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side.
While the chicken cooks, I mix the ranch dressing, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella in a small bowl for the creamy topping.
In another bowl, I combine parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter to make the crust.
Once the chicken is cooked, I transfer it to a baking sheet and spread the ranch mixture over each piece.
I sprinkle the parmesan-panko crust on top and broil it for 2–3 minutes until golden and crispy.
I let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving it hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 35 minutes in total—15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

I’ve tried different versions of this by using Italian seasoning in the breadcrumb mix or swapping in cheddar for a sharper cheesy flavor. Sometimes I add a touch of Dijon mustard to the ranch mixture for extra tang. For a lighter version, I bake the chicken instead of pan-searing it before adding the topping.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven or air fryer so the crust stays crispy—I just warm it at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Microwaving works too, but the crust may soften.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I’ve used boneless thighs and they work well. They’re juicier and add a slightly richer flavor, but I make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

What if I don’t have ranch dressing?

If I’m out of ranch, I make a quick version using sour cream, mayo, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs. It gives a similar flavor and works just as well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely—I use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and check that the ranch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. It still turns out delicious and crispy.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

I check that the internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be firm to the touch and the juices should run clear.

What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

I usually pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad. It also goes great with roasted veggies or garlic butter pasta.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn-style is one of those meals that feels indulgent but is totally doable at home. It’s packed with bold, cheesy flavor, and that crunchy topping really takes it over the top. When I want to treat myself—or impress someone—this is one of my go-to dishes.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Longhorn: Recipe & Easy Steps