Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken and Provolone Cheese recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on taste. It's a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights, and easily adaptable to your preferences. This recipe is a celebration of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a delicious dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine and Melt: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
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Add Cheese: Top the chicken with the provolone cheese slices. Cover the skillet and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When browning the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. This will ensure the chicken browns properly and doesn't steam. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, spices, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even a blend of cheeses.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Enhance this healthy meal by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce.
- Spice it up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe for Chicken and Provolone Cheese is a simple, satisfying, and delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. It's a great option for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy and flavorful meal. Enjoy!