Easy Italian Chicken Recipe

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Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 (16 ounce) bottle Italian-style salad dressing

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients.

Step 2: Using a fork, pierce the chicken breasts on both sides to allow the marinade to penetrate.

Step 3: Pour the Italian-style salad dressing into a large resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken breasts to the bag, seal it, and shake to coat the chicken evenly with the dressing.

Step 4: Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 6: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them in a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Discard the remaining marinade.

Step 7: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and the juices run clear, about 1 hour. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the chicken should read at least 165F (74C).

Step 8: Serve and enjoy your perfectly marinated baked chicken breasts!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 344
• Total Fat: 22g (29% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (19% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 68mg (23% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1296mg (56% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 8g (3% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 28g (55% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 18mg (1% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 336mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Everyone loves Italian chicken recipes, and this one's a winner. Italian-style dressing plus boneless breasts make a tender, tasty, 2-ingredient dish.

History of Easy Italian Chicken

The Easy Italian Chicken recipe is a modern take on classic Italian-American dishes that focus on simple, vibrant flavors. The inspiration behind the dish is drawn from Italys long-standing tradition of marinating meat in olive oil, vinegar, and a mixture of herbs. While the dish is not found in traditional Italian cookbooks, its roots lie in the Italian-American fusion cuisine, which emerged as Italian immigrants adapted to American ingredients and cooking methods. The use of Italian-style dressing in place of a homemade marinade highlights this practical adaptation, making it a favorite among busy home cooks.

Regional Variations

Though "Easy Italian Chicken" is not a regional dish in Italy, variations of marinated chicken are popular across many Italian regions. The use of salad dressings, especially in the United States, is a nod to the convenience of modern cooking. In Italy, similar dishes might feature homemade marinades made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, fresh herbs, and citrus. The chicken may be grilled or roasted in a wood-fired oven, giving it a more rustic, charred flavor. Some regional Italian variations also include adding vegetables like bell peppers or olives, which complement the chickens savory profile.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets Easy Italian Chicken apart from other chicken dishes is its minimalism. Many Italian recipes for chicken involve multiple steps, such as stuffing, searing, or slow cooking with sauces. In contrast, this dish focuses on the simplicity of marinating the chicken in Italian-style dressing and baking it. This makes it quicker and easier to prepare, perfect for busy nights or casual family dinners. Furthermore, the use of pre-made Italian dressing provides an accessible option for those who might not have time to craft their own marinades, offering an authentic taste without the effort.

Where It's Usually Served

Easy Italian Chicken is commonly served in American homes and restaurants, often as a weeknight dinner option. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. This dish is a popular choice for casual family meals, potlucks, and gatherings. In Italy, however, similar dishes would be served as part of a multi-course meal, often accompanied by pasta, polenta, or seasonal vegetables. It is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round, from a summer dinner with fresh garden herbs to a hearty winter meal with root vegetables.

Fun Facts

• Italian-style dressing is a staple in many American kitchens, and its often used not only for salads but also as a marinade for meats like chicken and pork.
• This recipe gained popularity because of its simplicity. Its a go-to dish for busy weeknights when you want something tasty with minimal preparation.
• The use of skinless, boneless chicken breasts makes the dish leaner, but you can also use thighs for a richer flavor.
• While this dish is quick to prepare, its also highly customizable. You can add Parmesan cheese, herbs, or even bacon for extra flavor, as many home cooks have done over the years.
• Some people like to make this recipe even quicker by using an air fryer or slow cooker, which speeds up the cooking process while maintaining great flavor.

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