This Golden Baked Chicken is the definition of comfort food done right. Juicy chicken breasts are layered with melty provolone cheese, smothered in a creamy parmesan sauce, and finished with a buttery cracker topping that bakes into a perfectly golden crust. It’s rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy—ideal for busy weeknights when you still want something cozy and homemade on the table.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Families looking for an easy oven-baked chicken dinner
- Home cooks who love cheesy, creamy comfort food
- Busy weeknights with minimal prep time
- Potlucks or casual dinner gatherings
- Anyone who wants a no-fuss meal that feels indulgent
Why It’s Great
- Simple ingredients you likely already have
- No marinating required
- Creamy, cheesy, and ultra-flavorful
- Bakes all in one dish
- Crowd-pleasing and kid-approved
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Seasoned salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Dried thyme | ½ teaspoon |
| Provolone cheese slices | 8 |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Finely grated parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Crushed buttery crackers (Ritz-style) | ½ cup |
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 2-quart baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Meat thermometer (recommended)
How to Make Golden Baked Chicken
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. - Season the Chicken
Mix seasoned salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme in a small bowl. Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly and place them in a single layer in the baking dish. - Add the Cheese
Lay two slices of provolone cheese over each chicken breast, fully covering the surface. - Make the Creamy Topping
In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sour cream, and parmesan cheese until smooth. - Assemble
Spread the creamy parmesan mixture evenly over the provolone-covered chicken. - Add the Crunch
Sprinkle crushed buttery crackers over the top to create a golden, crispy crust. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–60 minutes, until the topping is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Rest and Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave in short intervals
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy topping texture
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo or sour cream?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly tangier and less rich.
What crackers work best?
Buttery crackers like Ritz give the best flavor, but panko breadcrumbs can also be used.
How do I prevent the topping from browning too fast?
Loosely cover with foil during the last 15 minutes if needed.
Conclusion
This Golden Baked Chicken is everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, crispy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something warm and satisfying, this oven-baked chicken recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s a guaranteed repeat dinner you’ll come back to again and again.
