If you’ve ever craved a restaurant-quality dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy chicken breasts get an amazing flavor boost from a garlic-infused Parmesan mayo topping, all crowned with a delightfully crispy, cheesy crust. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy, savory, and golden crunch that’s surprisingly simple to make at home, delivering all the rich taste and satisfying textures you’d expect from a classic Longhorn-inspired meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first key step for this recipe’s success. Each component is straightforward but plays a vital role in creating the irresistible layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that’s tender and perfect for crusting.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken perfectly, adding subtle richness without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Delivers warm, aromatic depth to the seasoning.
- Onion powder: Provides a gentle savory undertone enhancing the flavor complexity.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky hint and vibrant color that boosts the overall appeal.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple essentials to bring out the natural flavors.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the garlic Parmesan topping ensuring moisture and richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Both in the topping and crust; brings nutty, salty sharpness vital for that signature taste.
- Minced garlic: Offers fresh intensity in the topping to complement the garlic powder seasoning.
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and a subtle tang that balances the richness.
- Shredded provolone cheese: Melts beautifully, giving the crust a smooth, cheesy texture.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Creates the crispy, golden exterior that’s satisfying to bite into.
- Melted butter: Binds the crust ingredients and helps achieve that irresistible crunch in the oven.
How to Make Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Start by pounding your chicken breasts evenly to ensure they cook uniformly—this keeps the texture tender throughout. Then, sprinkle a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. These spices are your flavor foundation and bring out that classic Longhorn-inspired profile.
Step 2: Sear to Perfection
Heat your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden brown. This step locks in moisture and adds delicious caramelization, making the next layers all the more tasty. Once seared, remove the skillet from heat to prepare the toppings.
Step 3: Prepare and Spread Garlic Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. This mixture creates a creamy, flavorful coating that melds seamlessly with the chicken while adding a zingy brightness. Spread this garlicky layer evenly over each seared chicken breast for maximum flavor impact.
Step 4: Assemble the Parmesan Crust
Mix shredded Parmesan, provolone, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter in a separate bowl until well combined. This crust mixture is the star that brings crunch, cheese melty goodness, and golden appeal. Press it firmly on top of the garlic Parmesan topping to ensure it sets beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy, Juicy Perfection
Place the skillet in your preheated oven at 400°F. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the crust appears bubbly, lightly browned, and crisp. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes once out of the oven to redistribute juices and lock in flavor.
How to Serve Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few basil leaves adds a fresh green pop that complements the golden crust beautifully. For a little extra zing, a light drizzle of lemon juice right before serving elevates the whole dish with brightness.
Side Dishes
This chicken naturally pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced yet hearty. Steamed green beans or a crisp Caesar salad also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crust.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken and fan it out over a bed of risotto or creamy polenta to soak up all those fantastic flavors. Serving it alongside a colorful quinoa salad can make your plate both vibrant and nutrient-packed, perfect for impressing guests or meal prepping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, maintaining flavor and texture nicely when properly chilled.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 2 months and retains its quality well when thawed gently in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To reheat, use a conventional oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes to revive the crispy crust, or warm gently in a skillet covered with a lid to keep the chicken moist. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that delicious crisp texture on top.
FAQs
Can I use mozzarella instead of provolone in the crust?
Absolutely! Mozzarella melts wonderfully and offers a mild, creamy flavor that works great as a substitute for provolone, making your crust just as cheesy and delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the crust crispy without gluten.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is using a meat thermometer; when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat without being dry.
Can I prepare the crust mixture ahead of time?
Feel free to mix the crust ingredients earlier and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before assembling. Just bring them back to room temperature before spreading to make pressing onto the chicken easier.
What if I prefer less mayo in the topping?
You can reduce the mayonnaise slightly and add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a lighter but still creamy texture without sacrificing too much flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly combines bold flavors, satisfying textures, and simple preparation, the Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is a no-brainer. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe brings that cozy, Cheesy, garlicky goodness straight to your table. Give it a try soon—you won’t regret adding this gem to your culinary repertoire!
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Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
This Longhorn Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken features juicy, seared chicken breasts topped with a rich garlic Parmesan mayo layer and a crispy, golden crust made from Parmesan, provolone, and panko breadcrumbs. Baked to perfection, this savory main course is a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Parmesan Topping
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Parmesan Crust
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the skillet from heat once searing is complete.
- Make the Garlic Parmesan Topping: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a creamy, flavorful topping.
- Apply the Topping: Spread the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the top of each seared chicken breast to add moisture and rich flavor.
- Prepare the Parmesan Crust: In another bowl, mix shredded Parmesan cheese, shredded provolone cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. This mixture will form a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Top the Chicken: Press the Parmesan crust mixture firmly onto the garlic Parmesan layer on each chicken breast, ensuring it adheres well.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the oven-safe skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the crust is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and enhances flavor.
Notes
- This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Provolone cheese can be substituted with mozzarella if preferred or if unavailable.
