Easy Italian Chicken Recipe
Are you tired of the same old chicken recipes? Looking for a delicious and easy way to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than this mouthwatering Easy Italian Chicken Recipe. With its flavorful blend of Italian herbs and spices, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So, let's dive right in and discover how to make this delectable dish!
Ingredients List
To make this Easy Italian Chicken Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Feel free to get creative with substitutions or additions to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Timing
This Easy Italian Chicken Recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal on the table.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Italian Chicken:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and place them in a baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they are fully covered.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken breasts.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This Easy Italian Chicken Recipe is so simple to make, yet the flavors are truly outstanding. The combination of the Italian herbs and spices with the melted mozzarella cheese creates a dish that is bursting with flavor and sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Nutritional Information
Here is the nutritional information for this Easy Italian Chicken Recipe:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
italian chicken image
If you're looking to make this Easy Italian Chicken Recipe even healthier, here are a few suggestions:
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for added fiber.
- Replace the marinara sauce with homemade tomato sauce to reduce the sodium content.
- Opt for low-fat mozzarella cheese or use a smaller amount to reduce the fat content.
These simple swaps will help you enjoy this delicious dish while making it even more nutritious.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions to make your Easy Italian Chicken Recipe even more enjoyable:
- Serve the chicken over a bed of cooked pasta for a classic Italian meal.
- Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Slice the chicken and use it as a topping for homemade pizza.
Get creative and have fun experimenting with different serving ideas to make this dish your own.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Easy Italian Chicken turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the chicken: Be sure to monitor the cooking time to prevent dry chicken.
- Skipping the seasoning: The herbs and spices are what give this dish its signature Italian flavor, so don't forget to season the chicken.
- Using too much cheese: While the melted mozzarella cheese adds a delicious touch, using too much can overpower the other flavors.
By avoiding these mistakes, you'll be able to enjoy a restaurant-quality Italian chicken dish right at home.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish ahead of time, here are some storing tips:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
These tips will help you make the most of your Easy Italian Chicken Recipe and enjoy it whenever you're in the mood for a tasty Italian meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Easy Italian Chicken Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful and easy-to-make meals. With its simple ingredients and delicious taste, it's a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, why wait? Give it a try tonight and enjoy a taste of Italy right at your dinner table!
Don't forget to leave a comment below and let us know how you liked this recipe. We'd love to hear your feedback and any variations you tried.
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FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?
A: Yes, you can omit the cheese if you prefer or if you have dietary restrictions. The dish will still be delicious thanks to the flavorful herbs and spices.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?
A: Yes, you can use fresh herbs if you have them on hand. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust the quantities to taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake it just before serving. It's a great option for entertaining.
Easy Italian Chicken Recipe
A mouthwatering dish featuring boneless, skinless chicken breasts cooked with Italian herbs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Cook chicken breasts in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.