Chicken Provolone

Let’s be honest: Chicken breasts have a reputation for being about as exciting as a conference call. But wrap them in salty prosciutto, slap on a leaf or two of basil and finish with melty provolone, and suddenly you have a weeknight dinner that struts. The whole thing goes from skillet to oven in less than 20 minutes, and your kitchen will smell like an upscale Italian restaurant.

The crispy edges of prosciutto contrast with the juicy chicken underneath, and the cheese isn’t just melted—it’s golden brown, molten and ready for a close-up. Basil brings just enough freshness to keep things balanced. Serve this chicken provolone with crusty bread to catch the drips or a green salad if you’re trying to be respectable. Either way, you’ll be glad you didn’t settle for plain old chicken breasts.

Chicken Provolone Ingredients

• Chicken breast halves
• Pepper
• Fresh basil leaves
• Prosciutto or deli ham
• Provolone cheese

Directions

Step 1: Cook the chicken

Sprinkle the chicken with pepper. In a large skillet coated with cooking spray, cook the chicken over medium heat until a thermometer reads 165°F, four to five minutes on each side.

Step 2: Add toppings and broil

Transfer the chicken to an ungreased baking sheet, then top it with the basil, prosciutto and cheese. Broil the chicken 6 to 8 inches from the heat until the cheese has melted, one to two minutes.

How to Store Chicken Provolone

To store leftover chicken provolone, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a food storage container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to reheat it, warm it in the oven or a covered skillet over low heat until the cheese is melty again.

Chicken Provolone Tips

Can you use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts in chicken provolone?

Yes, you can swap in boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Just keep in mind that thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

What’s a good substitute for prosciutto in chicken provolone?

To make chicken provolone without prosciutto, you can substitute thinly sliced deli ham. It has a salty, savory flavor that pairs well with the cheese and basil.

Can you use dried basil instead of fresh in chicken provolone?

You can swap in a small pinch of dried basil for each fresh basil leaf in the chicken provolone, but the flavor will be more muted. Add the dried basil under the cheese so the moisture helps bring out its aroma.

What should you serve with chicken provolone?

Chicken with provolone cheese pairs well with simple sides like roasted vegetables, garlic bread or a garden tomato salad. The rich, cheesy topping calls for something fresh or crunchy to balance the meal.