Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Print version)

Golden crusted chicken with Parmesan, provolone, and creamy ranch spread

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Parmesan Crust

07 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 tablespoon melted butter
10 - 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese
11 - 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

→ Creamy Ranch Spread

13 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
14 - 2 tablespoons sour cream
15 - 1 tablespoon ranch dressing
16 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray.
02 - Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Rub spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
04 - Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and well blended.
05 - In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, melted butter, shredded provolone, and mozzarella until combined.
06 - Spread 1 tablespoon of ranch mixture over each seared chicken breast. Top generously with Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
07 - Bake for 15-18 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and crust is golden brown and crispy.
08 - Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of searing then baking creates the most incredible texture contrast you will ever experience in a chicken dish
  • That creamy ranch layer underneath the crust is what makes this taste exactly like the restaurant version
  • You can prep everything ahead and bake when ready, making it perfect for dinner parties or busy weeknights
02 -
  • Do not skip the searing step or the crust will not adhere properly and the chicken will lack that restaurant-style texture
  • Let the chicken rest for at least 2 minutes after baking or all those delicious juices will run out onto the plate
  • The internal temperature is more reliable than visual cues so use a meat thermometer for perfect results every time
03 -
  • Pounding the chicken to even thickness is the single most important step for juicy restaurant-style results
  • Grate your own Parmesan from a wedge instead of buying pre-grated for better melting and flavor

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