Easy Italian Baked Chicken Recipe for Everyone

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Italian Baked Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The chicken is baked to perfection with a delicious Italian seasoning blend, creating a crispy, golden crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This recipe is great for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or serving guests. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll enjoy an aromatic, comforting meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

this Recipe

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures the chicken gets crispy while baking.
3. Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, rubbing it in to coat evenly. In a small bowl, mix together the oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
5. Optional: Add Parmesan: If you’re using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt and get golden.
6. Serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Toss some sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes around the chicken on the baking sheet for an easy one-pan meal.
• Cheesy Chicken: Top the chicken with mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy, melty version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, bone-in chicken will work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken breasts may take 35-40 minutes to cook through.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to cook depending on the size.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken with the seasoning and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! Simply store the cooked chicken in individual containers with your favorite sides.

Conclusion

Easy Italian Baked Chicken is a flavorful, low-maintenance recipe that delivers a delicious meal with minimal effort. The perfect balance of herbs and seasonings gives the chicken a rich, savory taste that pairs well with many sides, from pasta to vegetables. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for the week, this simple dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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