Low Sodium Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

(5.0)
By Adam Fisher
Updated 5/1/2026
Dietitian Reviewed: Erin McNamara, RDN, LDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Low Sodium Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Photo Credit: Jessica Kielman, Baldwin Publishing

No need to go out to eat to enjoy one of your favorite chicken recipes! This Longhorn Steakhouse copycat Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken features a crispy parmesan and panko crust baked to golden perfection alongside tender, garlicky green beans and juicy cherry tomatoes. And the best part? They are cooked all on one sheet pan!

With just 306 calories and 118mg of sodium per serving, it’s a low sodium dinner that’s boldly flavored and deliciously satisfying. This easy sheet pan recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or a one-pan recipe that can be made for high protein meal prep.

Big flavor doesn’t mean lots of salt! For more tasty meals, check out all of our low sodium dinner recipes. And if you are looking to add more protein to your diet, entice your taste buds with more of our high protein chicken recipes.

Total Time
40 minutes
Servings
2
Calories
306

What Makes This Low Sodium Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken Healthy

This recipe reimagines a restaurant favorite by focusing on nutrient-dense ingredients and smart salt-reduction techniques. By using fresh aromatics like garlic and Italian herbs instead of heavy sauces, you get the signature Longhorn flavor with a fraction of the sodium found in the original dish.

Key Health Highlights

  • Low Sodium: Contains only 118mg of sodium per serving, making it a heart-healthy choice compared to traditional restaurant versions.
  • High Protein: Provides 30g of lean protein to help keep you full and support muscle health.
  • One-Pan Veggies: Includes fresh green beans and fiber-rich cherry tomatoes for a complete, balanced meal.
  • Oven-Baked: Swaps deep-frying for a light olive oil and panko crust, significantly reducing saturated fat.
  • Dietitian-Approved: Designed to fit Heart-Healthy, Mediterranean, and GLP-1 dietary patterns.

FAQs About Garlic Parmesan Crusted Chicken

The original restaurant version can contain over 2,000mg of sodium. This recipe uses only 118mg by relying on fresh garlic and Italian seasoning for flavor instead of salt-heavy marinades.

Yes! Our version uses olive oil and the natural moisture of the chicken to bind the panko. As mentioned in the substitutions, Greek yogurt is another excellent healthy binder.

Press the panko mixture firmly onto the chicken breasts before placing them on the baking sheet and let the chicken rest after cooking to let the crust "set."

Yes, the high protein content and inclusion of fiber-rich vegetables make this an ideal choice for those following a GLP-1 meal plan.

Heart-Healthy Chicken Favorites

These low-sodium and high-protein chicken dishes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy classic comfort food while maintaining a heart-healthy diet.

Easy One-Pan Meals with Chicken

Simplify your weeknight routine with these healthy one-pan recipes that offer maximum flavor with minimal cleanup and prep time.

Healthy Variations

  • Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add an extra ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the panko mixture for a heat-forward crust.
  • Lemon Herb: Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a bright, Mediterranean-style flavor profile.
  • Pecan Crusted: Swap half the panko for finely crushed pecans for added healthy fats and a nutty texture.

Ingredients

Recipe yields 2 servings

Greens Beans and Tomatoes

Parmesan Chicken

Directions

Greens Beans and Tomatoes

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with non-stick cooking spray.

  2. Step 2

    In a medium mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add green beans and tomatoes and toss to coat evenly. in same bowl used for the potatoes and chicken. Coat evenly with olive oil. Add minced garlic and black pepper; toss to coat evenly.

  3. Step 3

    Transfer green beans and tomatoes to ½ of prepared baking sheet. Set aside.

Parmesan Chicken

  1. Step 1

    Add chicken to mixing bowl used to prepare green beans and tomatoes. Coat with olive oil. Add minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper; toss to coat evenly.

  2. Step 2

    Transfer coated chicken to the other half of the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and reaches internal temperature of 165°F.

  3. Step 3

    Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
4 oz chicken, 1/4 cup green beans, 1/4 cup tomatoes

306
Calories
13
g
Fat
85
mg
Cholesterol
118
mg
Sodium
18
g
Carbs
3
g
Sat. Fat
5
g
Fiber
30
g
Protein
3
g
Sugars
519
mg
Potassium
339
mg
Phosphorus

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Cook the chicken for 12–15 minutes (and veggies for 8–10) or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method results in an even crispier panko crust!
  • Stovetop Finish: For extra color, you can lightly sear the chicken in a pan with a mist of olive oil before finishing in the oven.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking; this locks in the juices and ensures the crust stays attached.
  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating for Crispiness: To avoid a soggy crust, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain the crunch.

What to Serve with this Low Sodium Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken

While this sheet pan meal is a complete dinner on its own, it pairs beautifully with other heart-healthy sides. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a portion of fluffy quinoa or roasted ranch potatoes. A simple side salad with a low sodium salad dressing can also add extra crunch and freshness to the plate.

Ingredient Substitutions

Many copycat recipes use mayo as a binder. For a healthier, higher-protein swap, use 1 tablespoon of plain non-fat Greek yogurt to help the panko stick.

Swap standard panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

If you need to further reduce sodium, use a small amount of Swiss or a low-sodium Parmesan alternative.

Swap green beans for asparagus or broccoli florets—just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

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