Marinating chicken breasts in Italian dressing is one of the easiest ways to impart flavor to an otherwise bland-tasting protein. This one-pan entree is the ideal recipe to make on busy weeknights or for advanced prep meals. The longer you marinate the chicken, the better the chicken will taste!
Ingredients For Italian Baked Chicken
- Thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper
How To Make Quick, One-Pan Italian Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board or plate, and pierce them with a fork all over. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the salad dressing into a bowl or zipper bag and add the chicken breasts.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are well covered, and marinate for at least one hour overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat the oven to 350 F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and shake off the excess.
Place the chicken breasts on the baking dish, cover with foil, and cook for 50-60 mins or until fully cooked, the internal temperature of the beasts reaches 165 F, or when pierced, the juices run clear. 10 minutes before the cooking time is over, remove the foil so the chicken browns nicely.
How Can I Make Sure The Chicken Stays Moist?
Dry chicken is the result of overcooking, so keep an eye on it and do not let it overcook. Covering the chicken with foil will keep the chicken moist while it cooks.
Quick One-Pan Italian Chicken
Equipment
- Zipper bag or bowl
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4-4 oz thin-cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1-16 oz bottle Italian-style dressing
- Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board or plate, and pierce them with a fork all over. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour the salad dressing into a bowl or zipper bag and add the chicken breasts.
- Make sure the chicken breasts are well covered in the marinade, and marinate for at least one hour overnight in the fridge.
- Preheat the oven to 350 F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and shake off the excess.
- Place the chicken breasts on the baking dish, cover with foil, and cook for 50-60 mins or until fully cooked, the internal temperature of the beasts reaches 165 F, or when pierced, the juices run clear. 10 minutes before the cooking time is over, remove the foil so the chicken browns nicely.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Different Kind Of Dressing?
If you don’t love Italian dressing, you can use any other oil-based dressing like Catalina or Greek. Avoid creamy dressings like Thousand Island.
Do I Have To Marinate The Chicken Overnight?
For best results, yes. But, you can marinate it for at least one hour.
Can I Add Other Ingredients To The Marinade?
You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme, and spices like garlic, paprika, or mustard powder. Also, make sure to season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them in the marinade.
Can I Cook This Recipe In A Crockpot?
Cooking the chicken in the crockpot keeps it moist and tender. You can cook it on high for 2-3 hours, or on low for 5-6 hours.
Is There A Faster Way To Prepare This If I’m Short On Time?
You can reduce the marinating time by 30 minutes if short on time, but the flavor might not be as intense.
Can I Reuse The Marinade For Anything Else?
Since it contains raw chicken, it is not recommended to reuse the marinade.
What Sides Go Well With This Dish?
You can serve this chicken entree with mashed potatoes, freshly cooked rice, steamed vegetables, or a side salad.
Can I Make This Recipe With Other Cuts Of Chicken?
You can use skinless, boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks, but the cooking time will vary.
