Provolone Melts: A Comfort Food Classic Reimagined

I can still picture my grandmother’s kitchen, the warm, yeasty aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with the savory scent of melting cheese. Weekends at her house always meant one thing: simple, satisfying meals made with love. While she was famous for her lasagna, I secretly craved her open-faced melts the most – warm, gooey, and incredibly comforting. This Provolone Melt recipe, though a bit more “grown-up” than Grandma’s, evokes that same feeling of pure, unadulterated culinary happiness.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yields: 4 melts
• Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

• 1 piece focaccia bread (approx. 10 by 7 by 3/4 inches)
• 2 cups shredded rotisserie-cooked chicken
• 1⁄2 cup ranch dressing
• 1⁄4 cup sliced green onion
• 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced
• 4 ounces provolone cheese, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Small bowl

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your broiler. This high, direct heat is what gives the melts their beautifully browned and bubbly cheese topping.

2. Place the focaccia on a baking sheet. The focaccia acts as the perfect base for this melt. Its slightly chewy texture and subtle olive oil flavor complement the other ingredients perfectly.

3. In a small bowl, stir together the shredded rotisserie-cooked chicken, ranch dressing, and green onions. This mixture forms the flavorful and creamy foundation of the melt. Make sure the chicken is evenly shredded for easy spreading. Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken.

4. Arrange the chicken mixture evenly on top of the focaccia. Spread it to the edges, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

5. Add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes over the chicken mixture. The tomatoes add a touch of freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the chicken and cheese. Ensure the tomato slices are thin so they heat through quickly.

6. Now, create a generous layer of thinly sliced provolone cheese on top of the tomatoes. Provolone melts beautifully and has a mild, slightly tangy flavor that is simply irresistible.

7. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the provolone. Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish and contributes to the golden-brown crust.

8. Broil for approximately 2 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Keep a very close eye on the melts during this stage as broilers can vary in intensity, and you want to avoid burning the cheese. The goal is a perfectly melted, slightly browned top.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture or use a spicy ranch dressing.
• Bread matters: If you can’t find focaccia, try using a sturdy Italian bread or even a thick-cut baguette. Just adjust the broiling time accordingly.
• Don’t overcrowd: If you’re making a large batch, broil the melts in batches to ensure even melting and browning.
• Get creative with toppings: Feel free to add other veggies like sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to customize your melt.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Provolone Melts immediately while the cheese is still warm and gooey. Cut the focaccia into individual portions for easy handling. A simple side salad or a bowl of tomato soup makes a perfect accompaniment.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can use the broiler again (watching carefully to avoid burning) or warm them in a toaster oven or regular oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) until heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the bread soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	438.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	69%
Total Fat	33.5 g	51%
Saturated Fat	10.3 g	51%
Cholesterol	91.5 mg	30%
Sodium	635.1 mg	26%
Total Carbohydrate	4.9 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1 g	3%
Sugars	3.1 g	12%
Protein	28.4 g	56%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers.
• Different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Pesto: Spread a layer of pesto on the focaccia before adding the other ingredients for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy version: Add jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a fiery kick.
• Italian herbs: Sprinkle some dried Italian herbs on top of the cheese before broiling for added aroma and flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of slicing my own?
A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded provolone and parmesan cheese. However, freshly sliced or grated cheese tends to melt more evenly and have a better flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have a broiler?
A: If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the melts in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Q: Can I make these melts ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the melts ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, but wait to broil them until just before serving. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Q: Can I freeze these melts?
A: Freezing is not recommended, as the bread and cheese can change texture upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy them fresh.

Q: What kind of ranch dressing should I use?
A: Use your favorite brand or variety of ranch dressing. You can also make your own ranch dressing from scratch for a more personalized flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Provolone Melt recipe is more than just a quick and easy meal; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and comforting flavors. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a cozy dinner, or a nostalgic trip back to Grandma’s kitchen, these melts are sure to hit the spot. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and seasonings to create your perfect melt. And don’t forget to share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear what you come up with! Perhaps pair it with a crisp glass of Pinot Grigio for a truly delightful experience. Enjoy!