If you have ever found yourself craving the rich, cheesy goodness of a restaurant favorite but wished you could whip it up in your own kitchen, then you’re going to love this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe. It’s a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and tender chicken dish that brings all the warm, comforting flavors straight to your table with surprisingly simple ingredients. The creamy parmesan topping with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese, combined with the juicy, perfectly seared chicken breasts, makes every bite an absolute pleasure. Trust me, once you try this at home, it will quickly become a go-to dinner for family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe lies in its straightforward, accessible ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and deliver a perfect combination of textures, making this dish feel indulgent while remaining uncomplicated.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide a tender and juicy base that absorbs the parmesan topping beautifully.
- Seasoned salt: Adds depth and a savory kick to the chicken without overpowering the other flavors.
- Black pepper: Offers a fresh, gentle heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a golden, crispy finish without sticking.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the parmesan topping that keeps it moist.
- Sour cream: Adds a slight tartness that brightens the mix and softens the cheesy punch.
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Essential for that authentic, nutty, salty flavor that defines the dish.
- Provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, giving a gooey, golden crown to your chicken.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a savory aroma and subtle pungency to the topping.
- Onion powder: Provides a sweet and savory note that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Panko breadcrumbs (optional): Adds an extra crispy bite when sprinkled on top before broiling.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and fresh herbaceous contrast to the richness.
How to Make Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Flatten and Season the Chicken
Start by pounding your boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness; this ensures they cook uniformly for that perfect juicy interior. Next, season them generously with seasoned salt and black pepper, setting the stage for all the delicious flavors to come.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully lay the chicken breasts in the pan and sear each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they develop a gorgeous golden crust. This step locks in the juices and provides a beautiful base for the creamy topping.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
While the chicken is cooling slightly on a baking sheet, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly grated parmesan cheese in a bowl. This creamy, tangy mixture is what sets this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe apart with that unmistakable flavor coating.
Step 4: Top the Chicken
Spread the creamy parmesan mixture evenly over each seared chicken breast. Then, generously layer slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top. For an added crispy texture, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs before placing it under the broiler.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes, watching closely as the cheese melts and begins to turn golden and bubbly. This quick broil step finishes the dish with a luscious, slightly crisp crust you’ll love.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This simple garnish adds a lovely burst of color and fresh flavor to your masterpiece.
How to Serve Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the star garnish here, offering a lovely herbal freshness that cuts through the creamy, cheesy richness. You can also try a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of brightness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside garlic mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or buttery sautéed green beans. Each complements the warm, cheesy chicken without competing with its bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic presentation, arrange the chicken breasts on a wooden board with a scattering of fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Alternatively, serve over a bed of creamy risotto or pasta for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is so versatile that your presentation can match any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish again with minimal effort.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, the chicken freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place them in freezer-safe bags. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months, ready to be reheated whenever convenience calls.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This keeps the cheese intact and the chicken moist, preserving that homemade charm that this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe is known for.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses for the topping?
Absolutely! While provolone or mozzarella give the best melt and mild flavor, you can experiment with cheddar, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Is it necessary to flatten the chicken breasts?
Flattening ensures even cooking, which helps avoid dry or undercooked spots. If your breasts are already uniform in thickness, you can skip this step, but it generally helps achieve the best texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply omit the panko breadcrumbs or substitute them with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain that crispy topping without any gluten.
What can I serve with this chicken for a lighter meal?
Pair it with steamed veggies, a light side salad, or cauliflower rice for a satisfying yet lighter option that balances the rich, creamy chicken.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning under the broiler?
Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling, as the cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly. Broil for the minimum recommended time and watch continuously to pull it out at the perfect moment.
Final Thoughts
Making this Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe at home is a fantastic way to enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food without the wait or expense. The blend of crispy seared chicken, rich creamy parmesan topping, and gooey melted cheese makes for an irresistible meal that’s surprisingly easy to pull off. I encourage you to try it soon—you might just find it becoming one of your new favorite dishes to share with loved ones.
Print
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and topped with a creamy parmesan mixture and melted cheese. Finished under the broiler for a bubbly, golden crust, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes, perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Flatten and Season Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Season both sides with seasoned salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. This locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to a baking sheet.
- Make the Topping: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy, which will enhance the flavor and moisture of the chicken.
- Top the Chicken: Spread the creamy parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Place a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top of each. If using, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs over the cheese for extra crunch.
- Broil: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. This step finishes the dish with a deliciously cheesy and slightly crisp topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot for a delightful entree.
Notes
- For even cooking, make sure all chicken breasts are similar thickness after pounding.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to avoid burning the cheese or breadcrumbs.
- Panko breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture but can be omitted for a softer topping.
- Can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
