Catch the aroma of tender chicken infused with zesty tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese melting into perfection. Every bite of this Italian Baked Chicken is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, promising comfort and satisfaction.
This dish has been my go-to for family gatherings. One whiff of the savory blend baking in the oven instantly brings everyone to the kitchen. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for those cozy Sunday dinners.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Italian Baked Chicken offers effortless preparation while delivering vibrant flavors.
- The dish’s visual appeal makes it a standout at any table.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for special occasions.
I once served this dish at a dinner party and watched my friends’ eyes widen with delight after their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 pieces for a satisfying meal but adjust based on your crowd.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for rich flavor; they form the base of our sauce.
- Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil’s aroma; it brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Garlic Cloves: Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor; it’s aromatic and adds depth to your dish.
- Italian Seasoning Blend: A mix of dried herbs like oregano and thyme gives that authentic Italian taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own if possible; it melts wonderfully and enhances the flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds richness and depth.
- Salt and Pepper: These staples enhance all the flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures even cooking throughout your chicken.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place your chicken breasts inside, ensuring they have enough space to breathe.
Create Your Sauce: In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes with minced garlic, fresh basil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined—this is where the magic begins!
Pour Over Your Chicken: Generously pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Make sure each piece is swimming in those gorgeous flavors.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything like snow on a winter day. It’ll melt into gooey goodness as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoy this delightful journey of flavors as you savor every bite!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the juiciest Italian baked chicken, let it marinate overnight.
- This enhances flavor and tenderness immensely.
- Keep an eye on cooking time to avoid dryness; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t forget to rest the chicken before slicing for optimal juiciness.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least two hours. Preheat your oven while preparing your baking dish with veggies and seasonings. Place the chicken on top, ensuring even cooking and delicious flavors melding.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs based on your preference—basil or parsley can bring a new twist! You can also add olives or artichokes for an extra burst of flavor, making your dish uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so in a low oven to prevent drying out, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Cooking Italian baked chicken always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and plates were piled high with love. Those moments are what cooking is all about.
FAQ
What is the best way to ensure my Italian baked chicken stays juicy?
Marinate your chicken properly and avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and baking for even cooking.
What sides pair well with Italian baked chicken?
Serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the savory flavors beautifully.
Italian Baked Chicken
Italian Baked Chicken is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a rich tomato sauce, infused with fresh basil and aromatic herbs. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning blend
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil and arrange the chicken breasts inside.
- In a bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in the sauce for at least two hours for added flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs like parsley or add olives for a unique twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
