Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Ranch Spread and Parmesan Crust Topping
- Make Ranch Spread: In a small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
- Make Parmesan Crust Topping: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and dried parsley. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan and provolone cheeses evenly over the seared chicken breasts.
- Add Ranch Spread: Spread the ranch mixture evenly over the cheese-topped chicken breasts.
- Add Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle the Parmesan crust topping evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crispy. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicates the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.
- Garnish: Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese.
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cheese Melting: Use freshly grated cheeses for better melting and flavor.
- Crust Crispiness: For an extra crispy crust, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
Enjoy this restaurant-quality Parmesan Crusted Chicken at home, impressing family and friends with its delicious flavors and crispy texture!