Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness (1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 4 slices Provolone cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Note: High heat is key for that initial sear.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Wait until the meat is completely dry to ensure the seasoning sticks.
  3. Place the chicken on the baking sheet and top each with a slice of Provolone cheese, trimming the edges to fit the meat.
  4. In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Mix until a thick, cohesive paste forms.
  5. Spoon a generous mound of the parmesan mixture onto each cheese covered breast and spread it all the way to the edges.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and the meat feels firm.
  7. Switch the oven to Broil for 2-3 minutes until the crust is deep mahogany gold.
  8. Remove from the oven once the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) using a digital thermometer.