Easy Two-Ingredient Italian Chicken: Tender, Flavorful Dinner in 2 Hours

Succulent Italian Chicken with Herbs

Looking for a simple yet flavorful Italian chicken recipe that will impress your family? This delicious dish brings together the vibrant flavors of Italy with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend dinner parties.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Italian Chicken Recipe

This incredibly tender and juicy Italian chicken uses just two main ingredients for maximum flavor with minimal effort. The Italian-style dressing works as both a marinade and sauce, infusing the chicken breasts with aromatic herbs and tangy goodness. It’s a foolproof recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results every time!

Simple Ingredients for Italian Chicken Magic

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 bottle (16 oz) Italian dressing
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large baking dish
• Measuring spoons
• Aluminum foil
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

How to Make Perfect Italian Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the chicken breast halves in a large baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
3. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. If using the optional garlic and Italian seasoning, sprinkle them evenly over the chicken.
4. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. For a slightly crispy exterior, remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Italian Chicken

• Marinate longer for more flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours before baking for even more flavor penetration.
• Even thickness matters: For more even cooking, consider pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness.
• Don’t overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly, so using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness at 165°F (74°C).
• Sauce it up: Reserve some of the cooking liquid to serve as a delicious sauce over the chicken and any side dishes.
• Fresh herbs make a difference: Adding fresh herbs at the end brightens up the flavors and adds visual appeal.

Delicious Serving Suggestions

This versatile Italian chicken pairs beautifully with so many sides! Try serving it with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• Creamy polenta
• Roasted cherry tomatoes
• Angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and parmesan
• Crusty Italian bread to soak up the flavorful sauce
• Simple garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Nutrition Information

Storing and Reheating Italian Chicken

This Italian chicken keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through (about 15-20 minutes) to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can slice the chicken and gently reheat it in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth.

Make it a Complete Italian Meal

For a true Italian-inspired feast, start with bruschetta or a caprese salad appetizer, serve this Italian chicken as your main course with pasta or polenta, and finish with a classic tiramisu or panna cotta for dessert. Pair with a medium-bodied Italian Chianti or Pinot Grigio to complete the experience.

Why This Italian Chicken Recipe Works Every Time

The beauty of this Italian chicken recipe lies in its simplicity. The Italian dressing contains all the essential flavor components needed for a delicious dish: herbs, acidity, oil, and seasonings. The slow baking process allows these flavors to fully penetrate the meat while keeping it incredibly juicy. It’s a foolproof method that delivers restaurant-quality chicken with minimal effort – perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!