Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken – A Must-Try Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Marinade (or use Italian Salad Dressing as a shortcut):
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
For the Parmesan Crust:
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, chopped into bits
- 1/2 cup Provolone cheese, chopped into bits
- 6 tablespoons Buttermilk Ranch dressing (or regular Ranch)
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until thoroughly mixed.
- Place the chicken breasts in a freezer bag and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat tenderizer.
- Lightly season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add the marinade to a new freezer bag with the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. For the best results, use a cast iron skillet.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Avoid moving the chicken while searing for a better crust.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean skillet or baking sheet and cover with foil to keep it warm.
3. Prepare the Parmesan Crust:
- Preheat the oven to a low broil setting (450°F).
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan, Provolone, and Ranch dressing. Microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring each time, until the cheese is mostly melted (a slightly lumpy texture is okay).
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs. Spoon this mixture on top of the cheese layer on each chicken breast.
4. Broil the Chicken:
Place the chicken under the broiler for 3-4 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Serve:
Enjoy the Parmesan Crusted Chicken hot, paired with mashed potatoes or your favorite side dishes.
Notes:
For a baked version, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the marinated chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through, before adding the Parmesan crust and broiling.
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories per Serving: 530
Servings: 4
This flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken features a golden, cheesy crust that perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making it an irresistible treat!