Aromatic herbs mingle with succulent chicken in a heavenly embrace, creating an irresistible dish that beckons you to dig in. This Italian baked chicken is not just food; it’s a flavorful experience that warms your heart and home.
Remember those family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, laughter filling the air? This dish takes me back to those moments of joy, where each bite of this tender, herb-infused delight brings smiles and satisfied sighs.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish a weeknight favorite for busy families
- Bursting with vibrant flavors, it’s sure to impress anyone at the dinner table
- The golden-brown crust and aromatic herbs create an eye-catching presentation
- Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends
I once made this Italian baked chicken for a potluck, and let’s just say it vanished faster than my last slice of pizza! Friends kept asking for the recipe—talk about a confidence booster!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 pieces for even cooking; they should be fresh and firm.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin is best for flavor; use it generously to keep the chicken moist.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Look for vibrant green leaves; chop them finely for that classic Italian aroma.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds a punch; press or mince them to release their aromatic goodness.
- Italian Seasoning Blend: A mix of dried herbs like oregano and thyme brings an authentic flavor profile.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors; don’t skip this essential ingredient!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all other flavors; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet cherry tomatoes add color and burst with juicy flavor when roasted.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your culinary adventure by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will ensure your chicken cooks evenly while developing a lovely golden color.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent any sticking. This simple step ensures every piece of chicken comes out beautifully.
Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Toss the chicken in this zesty mixture until well-coated; let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
Add Herby Goodness: Sprinkle the freshly chopped basil leaves and Italian seasoning blend over the marinated chicken. Give it a gentle massage—yes, your culinary masterpiece deserves some TLC!
Add Tomatoes: Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the seasoned chicken in the baking dish. Their sweetness will caramelize beautifully during baking.
Bake Until Perfect: Place everything in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
This delightful recipe transforms simple ingredients into an impressive meal bursting with flavor! Enjoy your homemade Italian baked chicken alongside some crusty bread or tossed salad—a match made in culinary heaven!
You Must Know
- This delightful Italian Baked Chicken is not just about flavor; it’s a dish that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas
- The juicy chicken pairs beautifully with tender veggies, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds
- Perfect for any family dinner, it’s sure to impress!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For the best results, start by marinating the chicken to infuse flavors, then bake it alongside colorful vegetables for an all-in-one meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or add a sprinkle of cheese before baking for extra richness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy chicken, let it marinate overnight
- Always pat dry before seasoning for maximum flavor absorption
- Add lemon zest for a zesty twist that brightens up every bite
Sharing this recipe with friends last summer turned into a fun cook-off challenge that ended with everyone asking for seconds—priceless memories were made over delicious bites!
FAQ
What sides pair well with Italian Baked Chicken?
Roasted potatoes or a fresh salad make excellent companions to this flavorful dish.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken cooks faster but adjust baking time accordingly.
How long does it take to bake Italian Baked Chicken?
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked through.
Italian Baked Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Italian Baked Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with aromatic herbs and juicy tomatoes, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Coat the chicken in this mixture and marinate for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle chopped basil and Italian seasoning over the marinated chicken.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Substitute seasonal vegetables or add a sprinkle of cheese before baking for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg