Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 teaspoon salt
03 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
04 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
05 - ½ teaspoon paprika
06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 - ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

→ Parmesan Topping

08 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - ½ cup ranch dressing
10 - ¼ cup mayonnaise
11 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
12 - ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
13 - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

→ Parmesan Crust

14 - ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
15 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
16 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
17 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to ½ inch thickness. Season both sides with mixed salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
02 - Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to 400°F oven and bake 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
03 - Mix ranch dressing, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Add optional mozzarella if desired.
04 - Combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until evenly mixed.
05 - Spread Parmesan topping over chicken breasts. Top with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Bake 5-7 minutes until golden and bubbly.
06 - Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

# Notes:

01 - Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor
02 - For extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs before using
03 - Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken