If you’re craving a dish that brings comfort, cheesiness, and a crispy golden finish all in one, look no further than this Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with juicy chicken breasts nestled beneath a luscious layer of melted provolone and a golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this recipe balances simple ingredients with a wonderful medley of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor, tenderness, and that irresistible golden crust. From savory seasonings to creamy cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, every element adds its own character to this delightful dish.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The lean protein base that will stay juicy and tender when baked properly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild, aromatic punch that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to introduce an herby warmth.
- ½ teaspoon salt: To bring out all the subtle flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken, helping it develop a beautiful golden crust.
- 4 slices provolone cheese: The star ingredient that melts creamy and mild over the chicken.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty sharpness and a salty crunch to the topping.
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Creates a crisp and flavorful crust that contrasts the tender chicken.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Binds the breadcrumbs and cheese together, ensuring a golden, rich topping.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Offers a fresh pop of color and subtle brightness when serving.
How to Make Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better and ensure a nice sear.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
On both sides of each chicken breast, sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly. This seasoning blend will infuse the chicken with savory, herby flavors that complement the cheese beautifully.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a light golden-brown color. This searing step locks in juices and starts the cooking process. Remember, the chicken is not fully cooked at this point.
Step 4: Layer with Cheese and Topping
Transfer the seared chicken to your greased baking dish. Place a slice of provolone cheese over each breast. In a small bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the chicken, ensuring a crunchy, flavorful crust forms during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the breadcrumb topping turns a gorgeous golden color. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, creating a perfect cheesy blanket over the tender chicken.
How to Serve Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley over the top adds a vibrant splash of green, enhancing the dish’s presentation and infusing a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and breadcrumbs.
Side Dishes
This Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The mild cheese and crunchy topping harmonize beautifully with both light sides and hearty accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken over a bed of garlic butter pasta or alongside a colorful ratatouille for a rustic twist. You can also drizzle a little marinara sauce under the cheese layer before baking to add a tangy Italian flair that makes every bite even more exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and helps maintain the tender texture of the chicken while preserving that crispy topping as much as possible.
Freezing
If you want to save the Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe for longer, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Stored this way, the chicken can last for up to 2 months without losing much of its delicious flavor and texture.
Reheating
To keep the breadcrumb topping crisp when reheating, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone gives a smooth, mild flavor perfect for this recipe, you can substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese if you prefer a slightly different taste or texture. Each will melt beautifully but may alter the overall flavor slightly.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing the chicken first is highly recommended as it locks in juices and helps develop a nice golden color, making the finished dish more flavorful and visually appealing. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step but expect a slightly different texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or crushed gluten-free crackers. This easy adjustment keeps the topping crispy without compromising the delicious taste.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The cheese will be bubbly and the crumbs toasted to a golden brown, signaling readiness and perfect doneness.
Can I add vegetables to bake with the chicken?
Definitely! Sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini can be added around the chicken in the baking dish. They will roast alongside the chicken, absorbing flavors and making the meal even more colorful and nutritious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the combination of tender chicken, melted provolone, and a crunchy golden topping—all wrapped up in this Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite to return to again and again. Whether for a family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction every single time. Give it a go and prepare to fall in love with every bite!
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Golden Baked Provolone Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Golden Baked Provolone Chicken is a flavorful and comforting main course featuring juicy chicken breasts seasoned with Italian herbs, topped with melted provolone cheese and a crunchy Parmesan-breadcrumb topping, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines the savory notes of garlic, herbs, and cheese for a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Searing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Topping
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust. They do not need to be completely cooked through at this stage.
- Arrange Chicken for Baking: Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the prepared baking dish, spacing them out evenly.
- Add Cheese Slices: Place one slice of provolone cheese on top of each chicken breast, allowing it to melt during baking.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix until the texture is crumbly and well combined.
- Top the Chicken: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over each chicken breast, covering the cheese layer lightly to create a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the breadcrumb topping is golden and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve the chicken breasts hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor impact.
- For extra richness and moisture, add a spoonful of marinara sauce under the cheese before baking.
