Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

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I’ve always loved the bold, creamy, and savory flavors you get from restaurant-style dishes, but there’s just something extra special about recreating them at home. This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort meals when I’m craving something rich, cheesy, and totally satisfying. It delivers everything you want from the original and more – with a personal touch and the cozy feeling of a homemade dinner.

I’ve made this recipe multiple times now, and it just keeps getting better. The seasoned chicken, seared to golden perfection, smothered in a creamy ranch-Parmesan blend, and finished under a bubbling broiler until it’s beautifully golden – it’s irresistible. The best part is how easy it is to make. Even on busy weeknights, I find myself reaching for the ingredients because it always hits the spot. It’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser when I serve it to friends or family.

If you’re a fan of dishes like Marry Me Chicken or Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, you’re going to fall head over heels for this one. It’s hearty, rich, and made with simple ingredients that most of us already have in our kitchens. This Parmesan-crusted chicken is my answer to restaurant cravings at a fraction of the cost – no reservations required!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

This dish is more than just another chicken dinner – it’s a crave-worthy blend of textures and flavors. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the crust on top gives it a delightful crunch. The creamy, cheesy ranch topping melts into every bite, creating a flavor bomb that never disappoints.

You’ll love it because it’s:

• An easy way to bring restaurant-quality food home.
• Full of creamy, cheesy goodness with bold seasoning.
• Quick enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests.
• A perfect pairing with your favorite sides or pasta dishes.

Trust me, once you try this at home, it’ll become a weekly favorite just like it did in my kitchen.

How to Make the Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by selecting boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pound them evenly to about half an inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and a tender bite. Season each piece with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a hint of smoked paprika for that extra depth of flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a bit of olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. You want a nice crust without overcooking, as it will finish in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Ranch-Parmesan Topping
While the chicken is cooking, mix together ranch dressing, shredded Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a bowl. This creamy topping is what gives the dish its signature flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Broil
Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Spoon the cheese mixture generously over each piece. Set your oven to broil and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, this recipe is quite adaptable. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness, or swap the ranch dressing for a garlic aioli or Caesar dressing for a different flavor profile. For a spicy twist, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne to the topping mix.

Want to make it low-carb? Use a keto-friendly ranch and skip the mozzarella in favor of extra Parmesan. You can also try adding sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of spinach to the topping for a little color and nutrition. The base recipe is super flexible, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

When I serve this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, I love pairing it with buttery mashed potatoes or a creamy pasta like fettuccine Alfredo. The cheesy richness of the chicken complements starchy, comforting sides beautifully. A crisp Caesar salad or simple roasted green beans adds freshness and crunch, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

For a heartier dinner, I sometimes serve it over a bed of garlic butter spaghetti, letting the extra topping melt into the pasta. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try a side of oven-roasted root vegetables or a tangy tomato-cucumber salad. It’s a dish that plays well with both indulgent and wholesome companions.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This keeps the topping gooey and the chicken juicy. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the cheese rubbery.

You can also freeze the cooked chicken (without the topping) for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven, then add the topping and broil briefly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close does this taste to the real Longhorn Steakhouse version?

Very close! The creamy ranch-Parmesan topping and seared chicken mimic the original restaurant flavors with surprising accuracy. The homemade version even lets you control the salt and richness.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

You can, but it’s best to use freshly cooked chicken so that it doesn’t dry out. If using pre-cooked, reduce broiling time and be sure to add more topping to prevent it from becoming tough.

What type of ranch dressing works best?

A thicker ranch dressing (like a buttermilk or homemade version) works best because it holds the cheese and doesn’t run off the chicken during broiling.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can sear the chicken and prepare the topping ahead of time. Assemble just before broiling, which makes it great for prepping earlier in the day.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The base recipe is gluten-free if your ranch dressing and cheeses are gluten-free. Always double-check your ingredient labels to be safe.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken, then I highly recommend trying out a few other dishes that hit those same comforting, creamy notes. My Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-make. It’s packed with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and a luscious cream sauce that wraps perfectly around your favorite pasta shape. For something equally rich but with a slightly different twist, check out the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts – it’s silky smooth and full of savory depth.

For more baked chicken ideas, don’t miss my Giant Zucchini Parmesan which layers vegetables and cheese in the most delightful way. Or for a cozy family dinner, my One Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles delivers flavor and comfort in every bite.

Explore these and more on my site and discover your new favorite dinner!

Don’t Forget to Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Love this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken? Pin it on Pinterest so you never lose it! This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, cozy weeknights, or when you’re just in the mood for a bit of cheesy indulgence.

If it turned out amazing (and I bet it did!), be sure to share it with your family and friends. Tag me on social media with your creations and drop a comment on the recipe post – I love seeing how your dishes turn out!

Sharing helps others discover delicious homemade meals, and it means the world to me when you spread the word about the recipes you enjoy.

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