Golden Baked Provolone Chicken: A Family Delight

Introduction

Golden Baked Provolone Chicken has quickly become a staple in our household. The blend of tender chicken breasts topped with gooey, melted provolone cheese creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. I first tried this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed something simple yet delicious. To my surprise, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! The combination of flavors is delightful, and it’s a great way to elevate chicken without requiring a lot of effort. Here’s how you can bring this delicious dish to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, ensuring an even coating.

Make the Cheese Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Drizzle olive oil (or melted butter) into the mixture and stir until it becomes slightly crumbly.

Coat the Chicken

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
2. Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture over the top of each chicken breast, pressing lightly to help it adhere.

Bake the Chicken

1. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s nearly cooked through (the internal temperature should be around 160°F/71°C).

Add the Provolone Cheese

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and place a slice of provolone cheese on top of each chicken breast.
2. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the provolone cheese is melted and golden.

Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the chicken from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 34g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Serve with garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Offer a side of pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
2. Breadcrumb Substitutes: If you don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs or panko can work as alternatives.
3. Cheese Options: While provolone is delicious, you can substitute it with mozzarella or fontina cheese for different flavor profiles.
4. Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for a couple of hours before cooking.
5. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and topping in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Recipe Variations

• Herb-Infused Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy Kick: Mix some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version.
• Vegetable Additions: Top the chicken with sautéed spinach or mushrooms before adding the cheese for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as cheddar or gouda, for a unique flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a side of quinoa.
• Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs well to balance the richness of the dish.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors nicely.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?
   Yes, but cooking times will vary. Make sure to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
3. What can I substitute for provolone cheese?
   Mozzarella or gouda are great alternatives.
4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the chicken and topping ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
5. What sides pair well with this chicken?
   Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad are great options.
6. Can I grill the chicken instead?
   Absolutely! Grill the chicken and add the cheese at the end for a smoky flavor.
7. How do I know when the chicken is done?
   Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?
   Yes, skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and moisture but will require longer cooking time.
9. What if I don’t have Italian breadcrumbs?
   You can use plain breadcrumbs or panko instead, adding your own Italian seasoning.
10. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese options and use olive oil instead of butter.

Conclusion

Golden Baked Provolone Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a gourmet meal. With its crispy topping and gooey cheese, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit your taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the compliments that are sure to follow!

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