If you’re like me and crave a comforting dinner that doesn’t come with a side of stress, this one’s for you. This Longhorn Parmesan Chicken hits all the notes — crispy, creamy, cheesy, and just plain satisfying. The kind of meal that makes you forget you ever considered takeout. We’re talking tender chicken breasts topped with garlicky ranch spread, sweet BBQ sauce, and melty provolone. It sounds indulgent, right? But here’s the kicker — it’s actually easy enough to whip up after a long day. Trust me, I’ve burned toast and even I nailed this one. Loaded with flavor, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to when I want a no-fuss dish that everyone at the table will fight over (in the loving way, of course). So if you’re flipping through Simple Chicken Recipes looking for a weeknight win, this one brings it home.
Table of Contents
- 1) Key Takeaways
- 2) Easy Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
- 3) Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
- 4) How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
- 5) Tips for Making Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
- 6) Making Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Ahead of Time
- 7) Storing Leftover Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
- 8) Try these Main Course recipes next!
- 9) Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
- 10) Nutrition
1) Key Takeaways
- This is a weeknight-friendly recipe packed with flavor.
- The chicken comes out juicy with crispy edges thanks to stovetop searing.
- The combination of ranch, BBQ, and provolone adds rich layers.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s still easy enough for beginners.
2) Easy Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Recipe
I’ve made a lot of simple chicken recipes in my time, but this one always gets people asking for seconds—and the recipe. That sweet spot where home-cooked comfort meets a little restaurant-style flair? That’s exactly where this chicken lands. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or you’re just tired of the same old dinner, this dish hits reset in the best way.
The ranch spread melts into the juicy chicken while BBQ sauce adds a sweet punch. Then, there’s the cheese. Thick, melty, golden cheese. Pair that with a side of mashed potatoes or maybe roasted veggies, and suddenly, dinner feels special without you breaking a sweat.
Simple chicken recipes often lean bland or boring, but not this one. We’re loading it with personality—flavor-packed layers, a crisped edge from the pan, and a smooth, creamy finish that sticks to your fork and makes it hard to stop after one bite.
3) Ingredients for Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Chicken Breasts: I like to go for boneless and skinless. Pound them out a bit so they cook evenly. It’s a game-changer.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated if you’ve got the time. Adds that nutty layer that just makes the dish sing.
Smoked Paprika: A little goes a long way here. It brings depth and a tiny smoky kick.
Salt and Pepper: Keep it simple. Season like you mean it, and your chicken will reward you.
Olive Oil: For searing the chicken. Helps give it that golden crust we’re all chasing.
Ranch Dressing: Thick, creamy, and full of herby flavor. Mix it with garlic and it becomes a serious flavor weapon.
Garlic: Fresh and minced. It infuses the ranch layer with bold flavor that feels anything but basic.
BBQ Sauce: Pick your favorite brand. I lean toward smoky-sweet styles for this one.
Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully and adds stretch and smoothness on top of the chicken.
Chopped Parsley: Totally optional, but it adds a nice pop of color and a fresh bite right at the end.
4) How to Make Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. This gives the cheese time to melt and bubble while the chicken finishes cooking.
Step 2: Pound your chicken to an even thickness and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked—it’ll finish in the oven.
Step 4: Mix ranch dressing with minced garlic. Spoon this mix evenly on top of each piece of chicken.
Step 5: Drizzle BBQ sauce over the ranch layer, then top with provolone cheese and sprinkle generously with parmesan.
Step 6: Place everything into a baking dish and let it bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’re looking for melted cheese and bubbly edges.
Step 7: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before digging in. If you like, toss on a little parsley before serving.
5) Tips for Making Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Don’t skip the sear. That little step adds more flavor than you’d expect. And when it comes to simple healthy chicken recipes, a good sear can make the difference between okay and oh-wow.
Use a meat thermometer if you’re not sure your chicken is done. You’re aiming for 165°F. No guessing, no worries.
Want to lighten it up? Go easy on the BBQ sauce or try a sugar-free version. You’ll still get the flavor without all the extra sweetness.
6) Making Longhorn Parmesan Chicken Ahead of Time
Planning ahead? You’re not alone. I prep this earlier in the day when I know it’s going to be a busy evening. Just do everything except the final bake. Let it cool a bit, cover it, and pop it in the fridge.
When it’s go time, slide the dish into the oven and bake as usual. You may need to tack on an extra 5 minutes if it’s straight from the fridge. That cheesy top will melt into perfection, just like you want.
Simple chicken recipes like this one hold up really well overnight. Just don’t assemble it too far ahead if you’re using a very thin ranch dressing. Thicker ones stay put better.
7) Storing Leftover Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Store your leftovers in an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for about 3 days. The flavors settle and deepen, so some folks swear it tastes even better the next day.
To reheat, toss it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Or if you’re short on time, microwave it in short bursts with a little water or broth to keep it from drying out.
One thing I don’t recommend? Freezing. The texture changes too much and the sauce separates. Trust me, fresh is best here.
8) Try these Main Course recipes next!
9) Longhorn Parmesan Chicken
Longhorn Parmesan Chicken – Simple Chicken Recipes for Everyday Cravings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and season both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. Don’t worry if it’s not cooked through—it’ll finish in the oven.
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with minced garlic. Spoon evenly over each chicken breast.
- Drizzle BBQ sauce over the garlic ranch layer.
- Top each piece with a slice of provolone cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is bubbling.
- Let rest for a couple minutes before serving. Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley.
10) Nutrition
Serving Size: 1 breast, Calories: 495, Sugar: 7 g, Sodium: 890 mg, Fat: 29 g, Saturated Fat: 11 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Fiber: 0.5 g, Protein: 44 g, Cholesterol: 110 mg
Written by Eleanor for Eleanor Cooks
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