If you are on the hunt for a dish that bursts with flavor and texture, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Ranch and Provolone Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated to perfection, topped with a dreamy blend of ranch dressing, provolone cheese, and a crispy parmesan-panko crust that adds the perfect golden crunch. This recipe combines creamy, tangy, and savory elements into one unforgettable meal that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its unique magic. From the tangy Italian dressing that tenderizes the chicken to the rich, melty provolone and the crispy, flavorful parmesan panko topping, every component plays a vital role in creating this delicious dish.
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Pounded to ¾ inch thickness for even cooking and juiciness.
- Italian Dressing: Used for marinating the chicken and infusing it with bright, zesty flavors.
- Shredded Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully to add creamy, mild cheesiness on top.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled in the crust and ranch mix for sharp, nutty depth.
- Buttermilk Ranch Dressing: Adds a cool, tangy base for the savory spread.
- Plain Panko Bread Crumbs: Creates a crunchy, light texture in the topping.
- Garlic Salt: Boosts the savory notes throughout the dish.
- Unsalted Melted Butter: Helps bind and crisp up the panko-parmesan crust perfectly.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Ranch and Provolone Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by soaking your chicken breasts in 1 ½ cups of Italian dressing. This step not only infuses each bite with vibrant flavors but also keeps the meat tender and juicy. Marinate for at least 2 to 4 hours, or even better, overnight to let those flavors truly deepen.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Once marinated, remove the chicken and get your grill heated to medium-high heat. A cast iron grill pan or an outdoor grill works beautifully here. The heat will seal in juices and impart those gorgeous grill marks we all love.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures it’s fully cooked while staying moist and tender. Resist the urge to flip too often so it develops that perfect crust.
Step 4: Let It Rest
After grilling, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite delightfully juicy.
Step 5: Prepare the Ranch Spread and Parmesan Topping
While the chicken is resting, combine the ranch dressing with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan in a small bowl until smooth—this mixture adds creamy tang and cheesy richness.
Step 6: Make the Parmesan Panko Crust
In another bowl, mix the panko crumbs, garlic salt, another ¼ cup of Parmesan, and melted butter. The butter moistens the crumbs so they crisp up beautifully under broiling, while the garlic salt amps up the savory flavor.
Step 7: Assemble and Broil
Move your oven rack to the center and preheat it to high broil. Transfer the grilled chicken to an oven-safe dish, spread 2 tablespoons of the ranch spread over each piece, then sprinkle the shredded provolone cheese evenly on top. Finally, pile the parmesan-panko mixture over each chicken breast.
Step 8: Broil to Perfection
Place the dish under the broiler and watch closely as the cheese melts and the topping turns a lovely golden brown. This usually takes just a few minutes, turning the dish into a crispy, cheesy masterpiece.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve immediately while the chicken is hot, juicy, and full of irresistible textures and flavors.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Ranch and Provolone Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds brightness and a lovely contrast to the rich, cheesy crust. A light drizzle of extra ranch or a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the flavors if you want a little extra zing.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted seasonal vegetables to balance the hearty, cheesy chicken. For a lighter note, steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach are fantastic companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the Parmesan Crusted Chicken and serving it over a bed of creamy risotto or pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs. You can also make sliders by using smaller chicken pieces and topping them with juicy tomato slices and arugula on toasted buns for a delicious sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken covered helps maintain moisture and flavor after cooking.
Freezing
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Ranch and Provolone Recipe freezes well if you wrap the pieces tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to preserve moisture, heating for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crispy.
FAQs
Can I use another cheese instead of provolone?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are great mild alternatives that melt well. For a sharper bite, try cheddar or gouda, but provolone offers a perfect balance for this recipe.
Is Italian dressing necessary for marinating?
Italian dressing works wonderfully because of its acidity and herb blend, but you can substitute with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and dried Italian herbs if you prefer homemade flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the plain panko bread crumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the crust crispy without gluten concerns.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook this on the stove?
Definitely. Use a heavy skillet or grill pan on medium-high heat to cook the chicken, getting nice sear marks. Finish with the broil step as instructed to crisp up the topping.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
For juicy, flavorful chicken, marinate for at least 2 to 4 hours, but overnight marinating takes it to the next level, maximizing tenderness and taste.
Final Thoughts
This Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Ranch and Provolone Recipe is a delightful combination of juicy grilled chicken, tangy ranch, and irresistible cheesy crispiness that truly hits all the right notes. It’s warm, inviting, and perfect for any meal, whether a casual family dinner or entertaining friends. Give it a go and enjoy the delicious, crunchy-cheesy magic yourself!
