Chicken parmesan revolutionized: discover the secret of using provolone cheese

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and melted cheese. While Parmesan cheese is typically used in the dish, provolone cheese is a suitable alternative that offers a unique twist.

Why Provolone Cheese?

Provolone is a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a slightly salty, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture. When melted, provolone becomes gooey and stretchy, making it an excellent choice for dishes like chicken Parmesan.

Benefits of Using Provolone

• Melts Well: Provolone melts evenly, creating a smooth, creamy topping for your chicken.
• Salty Flavor: The salty flavor of provolone complements the richness of the chicken and sauce.
• Stretchy Texture: The stretchy texture of melted provolone adds an extra layer of indulgence to the dish.
• Availability: Provolone is widely available in supermarkets and specialty cheese shops.

How to Use Provolone for Chicken Parmesan

Using provolone for chicken Parmesan is a simple process:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Bread and fry the chicken until golden brown.
2. Add Sauce: Spread a layer of marinara sauce over the chicken.
3. Top with Provolone: Slice provolone cheese and arrange it over the sauce.
4. Bake: Bake the chicken Parmesan in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations

• Fresh Provolone vs. Aged Provolone: Fresh provolone has a milder flavor, while aged provolone has a more intense nutty taste.
• Mixed Cheese Topping: Combine provolone with Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for a more complex flavor profile.
• Add-Ins: Experiment with adding other ingredients to your provolone topping, such as herbs, spices, or sliced vegetables.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of the provolone you use will significantly impact the flavor of your dish.
• Shred or Slice Thinly: Shredding or slicing the provolone thinly ensures even melting.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can cause the provolone to become tough and rubbery.
• Serve Immediately: Chicken Parmesan is best served hot and fresh, so prepare it just before serving.

Alternatives to Provolone

If you don’t have provolone cheese on hand, you can use other cheese varieties as alternatives:

• Parmesan: The classic choice, Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Mozzarella: A popular choice for its stretchy texture and mild flavor.
• Asiago: A hard cheese with a slightly nutty and fruity flavor.
• Fontina: A semi-soft cheese with a buttery, nutty flavor.

The Verdict

So, can you use provolone cheese for chicken Parmesan? Absolutely! Provolone is a versatile cheese that offers a unique flavor and texture to this classic dish. Whether you prefer its salty flavor, stretchy texture, or availability, provolone is an excellent choice for your next chicken Parmesan adventure.

Answers to Your Questions

1. What is the best type of provolone to use for chicken Parmesan?

Fresh provolone has a milder flavor, while aged provolone has a more intense nutty taste. Either type can be used, depending on your preference.

2. Can I use pre-shredded provolone cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-shredded provolone cheese. However, freshly shredded cheese will melt more evenly.

3. How long should I bake chicken Parmesan with provolone cheese?

Bake the chicken Parmesan for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Can I freeze chicken Parmesan with provolone cheese?

Yes, you can freeze chicken Parmesan with provolone cheese. Let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat it in the oven when ready to serve.

5. What side dishes go well with chicken Parmesan with provolone cheese?

Pasta, garlic bread, and a side salad are all great side dishes for chicken Parmesan with provolone cheese.