Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Introduction

When I first tried making this Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, I wasn’t sure how it would compare to the version I had enjoyed at LongHorn Steakhouse. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to recreate and how delicious it turned out! The chicken was juicy, tender, and coated with a rich, crispy Parmesan crust. It was a hit with my family, who loved every bite. The combination of melted cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and a hint of Dijon mustard made the crust perfectly flavorful. Paired with the creamy ranch spread, it was a meal that everyone enjoyed, and I quickly added it to my list of go-to weeknight meals.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with a variety of sides, making it the perfect dinner for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a more formal gathering. The recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, and the steps are straightforward enough for even beginner cooks. If you’re looking for a comforting, indulgent dish that your whole family will enjoy, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

To make this flavorful Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)

For the Parmesan Crust:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

For the Ranch Spread:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

These ingredients come together to create a rich and crispy crust, complemented by a creamy ranch spread that gives the chicken an extra burst of flavor.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Set the chicken aside to rest.

1. Make the Ranch Spread:

• In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, and garlic powder together until well combined. Set aside.

1. Prepare the Parmesan Crust:

• In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded provolone (or mozzarella), and panko breadcrumbs.
• Stir in the melted butter, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together.

1. Assemble and Broil:

• Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
• Place the seared chicken breasts on a baking sheet.
• Spread a layer of the ranch spread on each chicken breast.
• Top each chicken breast with a generous amount of the Parmesan crust mixture, pressing it down slightly to help it adhere.

1. Broil the Chicken:

• Place the chicken under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

1. Serve:

• Serve your Parmesan Crusted Chicken with your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition for a typical serving of Parmesan Crusted Chicken (assuming the recipe serves 4):

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 480
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 870mg
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 47g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent but easy.

How to Serve

There are several ways you can serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken, depending on your preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some great options:

• With mashed potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
• With steamed vegetables: Serve alongside a fresh veggie side like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
• On a salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a simple vinaigrette or ranch dressing.
• With garlic bread: For a more indulgent meal, serve the chicken with crispy garlic bread.
• Over pasta: You can even serve the chicken over a bed of pasta for a hearty meal.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t overcook the chicken: Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F but doesn’t dry out.
2. Use fresh breadcrumbs: While store-bought panko breadcrumbs work well, fresh breadcrumbs can give the crust a slightly better texture.
3. Grate your own cheese: For the best flavor and texture, freshly grate your Parmesan and provolone cheese.
4. Try different cheeses: If you prefer, swap provolone with mozzarella or another melting cheese like Gouda or fontina.
5. Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the ranch spread for a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Swap the panko breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour to make this recipe low-carb.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular panko breadcrumbs to make this a gluten-free meal.
• Add Herbs: You can mix in fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil into the Parmesan crust for added flavor.
• Make it Creamier: Add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese to the ranch spread for a creamier texture.
• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• For a Weeknight Dinner: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes for a complete, comforting meal.
• For a Family Gathering: Serve as part of a dinner party or holiday spread alongside other main dishes like roasted meats or pasta.
• For a Light Lunch: Serve with a crisp salad and some garlic bread for a lighter meal that’s still satisfying.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the prepared chicken before broiling. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then broil as directed.
• Storing leftovers: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer a juicier, more flavorful option.
2. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
   Yes, you can sear the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to add the ranch spread and Parmesan crust.
3. Can I make the crust mixture ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the Parmesan crust mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
4. Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
   Yes, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even cream cheese for a different creamy texture.
5. What can I serve with this chicken?
   You can pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, mozzarella or Gouda would be great alternatives to provolone.
7. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce to the ranch spread for a spicy kick.
8. How long do leftovers last?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Can I freeze the chicken?
   Yes, the chicken can be frozen before broiling. Just be sure to thaw it completely before finishing the recipe.
10. What should the internal temperature of the chicken be?
    The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

Conclusion

Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen. With a crispy, cheesy crust and juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to impress your family or guests. The ranch spread adds a creamy layer of flavor that complements the crust, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

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