Golden Baked Provolone Chicken

Ingredients:

4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts

½ tsp Salt

½ tsp Pepper

1 tsp Garlic Powder

1 tsp Italian Seasoning

8 Slices Provolone Cheese

½ c Mayonnaise

½ c Sour Cream

¾ c Shredded or Grated Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.

Place the chicken breasts in the dish.

Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning together and sprinkle a bit over the chicken.

Lay the provolone cheese slices on top of the chicken.

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and parmesan cheese, then spread this mixture over the chicken.

Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the chicken is cooked through (reaches an internal temperature of 165°F).

Notes:

Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses common ingredients found in most kitchens, making it easy to prepare without the need for special shopping trips.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, and by removing the skin, you reduce the fat content of the dish.

Seasoning Blend: The combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning adds depth of flavor to the chicken, enhancing its taste without overpowering it.

Provolone Cheese: Provolone cheese lends a creamy texture and mild flavor to the dish, complementing the chicken beautifully.

Creamy Topping: The mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and decadent topping that adds moisture and richness to the chicken as it bakes.

Baking Instructions: Baking the chicken in a preheated oven ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld together. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. It can also be served with pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.

Customization: Feel free to customize the seasoning blend or cheese selection to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, you can add herbs or spices to the creamy topping for added flavor dimension.

Leftovers: Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Family-Friendly: This recipe is likely to be enjoyed by the whole family, thanks to its creamy texture and comforting flavors. It’s a versatile dish that can easily become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 425 | Protein: 41g | Fat: 29g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 0g

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Provolone?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss, but Provolone adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the dish is cold when placed in the oven.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer.

Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time.

What can I serve with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in the topping mixture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I add extra spices or herbs to the seasoning blend?

Yes, feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste by adding additional spices or herbs.

Can leftovers be refrigerated and reheated?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking.

Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.