Description
This Copycat Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings the rich, savory flavors of the popular restaurant dish right into your kitchen. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned and pan-seared to golden perfection, then topped with a creamy layer of Provolone cheese and a crispy, cheesy crust made from Parmesan and Panko breadcrumbs. After a quick bake in the oven, the result is a delectable, crispy-topped chicken that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving this for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced Provolone cheese (about 4 slices)
- 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully heat while you prepare the chicken.
- Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasonings and the crust adhere better. Season both sides of the chicken generously with garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed across the entire surface.
- Heat the skillet: Add a small amount of oil (about 1-2 tablespoons) to a large, ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Allow the skillet to heat up until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s ready for searing.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Sear the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the heated skillet. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes until golden brown. You want to create a nice sear on the outside of the chicken, which locks in moisture and flavor. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven, so no need to cook it through at this point.
- Remove the skillet from heat: Once both sides are seared, take the skillet off the heat and let the chicken rest while you prepare the cheese topping.
Step 3: Make the Parmesan Crust
- Prepare the crust: In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly but sticks together when pressed.
- Optional Add-ins: If you’d like to add extra flavor, you can mix in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or a pinch of garlic powder. For a little heat, red pepper flakes work great!
- Add cheese layers: Place one slice of Provolone cheese on top of each chicken breast. The cheese should start melting slightly from the heat of the chicken. Next, evenly distribute the Parmesan-Panko mixture over the Provolone slices, pressing it down gently to help it adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Transfer to oven: Place the skillet with the chicken into the preheated oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the crust turns golden brown.
- Optional broiling: If you’d like an extra-crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this time to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. If desired, sprinkle with chopped parsley to add color and a hint of freshness.
- Serve immediately: The chicken is best served right away while the cheese is still melty and the crust is crispy. Consider pairing it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Caesar salad.
Notes
- Pounding Chicken for Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents the outer layer from drying out while the inside cooks through.
- Fresh Parmesan for the Best Crust: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-packaged varieties for the best flavor and a crispier, more even crust.
- Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the chicken. This ensures that the cheese melts evenly and the breadcrumb topping crisps up perfectly without burning.
- Broiling Option: For an extra-crispy topping, broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Leftover Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best results. Avoid microwaving, as it will cause the crust to lose its crispness.