If you are craving a dish that perfectly combines rich flavors with a golden, bubbly cheese topping, you are in for a treat with the Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe. This delightful meal brings together tender chicken breasts wrapped in a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then crowned with melted provolone cheese that browns beautifully in the oven. It’s simple to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to family or friends, making it an instant favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color in this Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe. From the savory spices to the creamy cheeses and the crunchy breadcrumb topping, every component enhances the dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base.
- 4 slices provolone cheese: Melts wonderfully to create the golden cheesy crown on top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor and helps form that irresistible crust.
- 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Brings a crunchy texture and extra seasoning to the topping.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle depth and savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory complexity without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a gentle smoky warmth and a beautiful color to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that ties the flavors together with its earthy notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of mild heat to complement the seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: Helps bind the breadcrumb mixture and promotes browning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a burst of fresh color and a bright finishing touch.
How to Make Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the perfect temperature for baking the chicken evenly while giving the cheese just the right amount of time to melt and brown. Prepare your baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Dry each chicken breast thoroughly with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and promotes a crispier crust. Then season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika, infusing the chicken with a subtle kick of flavor and beautiful coloring from the paprika.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Topping
In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter into the mixture and stir until crumbly. This mixture will form the savory, crunchy, and golden crust that makes this Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe so special.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture over the top of each breast, gently pressing it down so it adheres well. This step is where your chicken starts transforming into the golden masterpiece you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes until it is nearly cooked through. You’re aiming for an internal temperature close to 160°F (71°C) at this stage. The crust should look lightly browned and fragrant, setting up the perfect base for the melty provolone topping.
Step 6: Add the Provolone Cheese
Remove the baking dish from the oven and top each chicken breast with a slice of provolone cheese. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. You want the provolone to melt completely and develop a tantalizing golden color, adding a creamy richness to the dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and beautifully golden, take the chicken out of the oven. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top, adding a bright, fresh touch that balances the richness perfectly. Now, your Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe is ready to delight your taste buds!
How to Serve Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic garnish for this dish, lending a pop of vibrant green color and a subtle herbal freshness. For a bit of extra flair or more flavor dimensions, you could sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the richness.
Side Dishes
This golden baked chicken pairs beautifully with light and fluffy sides. Consider serving with creamy mashed potatoes or a garlic butter pasta to soak up any cheesy drippings. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, add a lovely crunch and earthiness that complement the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
Imagine plating the chicken atop a bed of sautéed spinach or fragrant rice pilaf, adding height and interest to your presentation. You can also slice the chicken after baking and fan the pieces out for an elegant look that invites sharing around the table. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious meal again without compromising on texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts from this recipe by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe will maintain good quality for up to 2 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep or busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is re-melted. Avoid using a microwave if possible to keep the crust crispy and the cheese luscious.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! While provolone melts beautifully and offers a mild, buttery flavor, you can substitute mozzarella, fontina, or even a mild cheddar to add a different twist to the Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can skip breadcrumbs if needed, but the texture of the topping will change. Consider using crushed nuts or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb option to keep the crunchy element intact.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For the Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe, baking until the internal temp is around 160°F before adding the cheese ensures it finishes cooking perfectly after the melting step.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with seasoning and breadcrumb mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake fresh when ready, adding the provolone cheese toward the end for the best texture and flavor.
What wine pairs well with this chicken dish?
A light to medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a dry Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy cheese and herbs perfectly. For red wine lovers, a fruity Pinot Noir is a great match as well.
Final Thoughts
There really is something so comforting and satisfying about this Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe. Its gorgeous golden crust, melted creamy cheese, and tender juicy chicken come together in a dish that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table. I hope you give it a try soon — it’s sure to become one of your go-to meals for both busy weeknights and special occasions!
Print
Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Entrée
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Golden Baked Provolone Chicken is a simple yet delicious family-friendly dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a flavorful Parmesan breadcrumb crust and melted provolone cheese. This easy oven-baked recipe combines savory herbs and spices with a crispy cheesy topping for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cheese Topping
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 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: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels for better seasoning adhesion. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika to enhance flavor.
- Make the Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter into the mixture and stir until it reaches a slightly crumbly texture that will form a crisp topping.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture evenly over each breast, pressing lightly so it adheres well to the surface.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken uncovered for 20-25 minutes until nearly cooked through. The internal temperature should reach about 160°F (71°C), ensuring the chicken is juicy and tender.
- Add the Provolone Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven and place one slice of provolone cheese on top of each chicken breast. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the provolone cheese is melted and has a golden color, take the chicken out of the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; pound them lightly if needed.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you require a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Check the internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness and food safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
