If you are craving a dish that combines rich, cheesy comfort with a touch of savory ranch goodness, then you have to try the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe. This delightful baked chicken features tender, juicy breasts smothered in a creamy ranch and sour cream sauce, topped with a luscious blend of Parmesan and provolone cheeses that melt perfectly in the oven. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that can easily become a family favorite or your go-to for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient works together to create a harmonious dish. From creamy cheeses to flavorful seasonings, every component is essential to achieving that irresistible taste and texture.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a tender base.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that forms the perfect crust.
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Brings creamy tanginess and herbs that infuse the chicken with flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for a light coating to help the chicken brown nicely.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers subtle depth and warmth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes for a well-rounded taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a hint of mild smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic but crucial for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the chicken won’t stick and to help develop a lovely crust on the bottom. This step sets the stage for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This creamy mixture is where the magic begins — it brings moisture to the chicken while packing it with flavor that seeps in during baking.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Lightly brush both sides of each breast with olive oil to encourage browning and prevent dryness. This simple step enhances the chicken’s flavor and texture.
Step 4: Layer the Sauce and Cheese
Spread the ranch and sour cream mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the sauce, creating that signature Longhorn Parmesan Chicken crust. Finally, top each piece with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, ensuring a gooey, melty finish.
Step 5: Bake and Broil
Bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. For a golden, slightly crispy topping, switch your oven to broil and place the chicken under the heat for an additional 1 to 2 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of vibrant color and a fresh hint that lifts the entire dish. Your Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh chopped parsley is a classic touch that brightens both the plate and the palate. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan or crushed red pepper flakes if you want a bit more oomph. A lemon wedge on the side can add a delightful zing if you like a citrusy contrast.
Side Dishes
This cheesy and creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, which soak up all the luscious sauce. Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans add a fresh, crisp counterbalance to the dish’s richness. Pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic or a light salad also harmonize perfectly, rounding out a hearty and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating this chicken atop a bed of creamy risotto or garlic butter rice. You can also slice the cooked chicken and serve it over a fresh spinach or arugula salad for a lighter, yet indulgent, presentation. Using ramekins or individual mini baking dishes can make the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe feel extra special and tailored to each guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for next-day meals or a quick lunch.
Freezing
To freeze this dish, pop the cooled chicken into a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in foil followed by plastic wrap. It will maintain best quality for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and the cheese regains some meltiness. Alternatively, microwave on medium power with a cover to retain moisture, though you might lose some of that fresh-baked crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone and mozzarella are traditional choices for their melting qualities, you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of your favorites to tailor the flavor to your liking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use ranch dressing and other ingredients without hidden gluten. Always check labels if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Making this dish completely dairy-free is challenging due to the cheese and sour cream, but you could try dairy-free cheese alternatives and a dairy-free ranch substitute. However, expect a different flavor and texture experience.
What can I do to make the chicken more flavorful before baking?
Marinating the chicken in Italian dressing, lemon juice with herbs, or even a simple olive oil and garlic blend for 30 minutes to an hour before baking will deepen the flavors and add extra tenderness.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The juices should run clear, and the texture should be firm yet juicy.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and satisfying about the Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe that has kept it a favorite in many kitchens, including mine. Its creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned profile makes every meal feel a little more special. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—whether for a weekday dinner or a weekend treat—and enjoy the delicious warmth it brings to your table.
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Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken is a deliciously cheesy and creamy baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a savory ranch and sour cream mixture, layered with Parmesan and melted provolone or mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or pasta.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cheese
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Make the Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Brush both sides of each chicken breast lightly with olive oil to add flavor and help keep them moist during baking.
- Apply Sauce and Cheese: Evenly spread the ranch and sour cream mixture over the top of each chicken breast. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce layer, followed by an even topping of shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional Broil for Golden Top: For a beautifully golden and slightly crispy cheese crust, broil the chicken on high for 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Serve this cheesy chicken alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.
- Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts evenly before cooking to ensure uniform thickness and cooking.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before baking.
