Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and simple yet delightful dishes. One standout favorite is Italian Baked Chicken, a savory and succulent meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with the authentic taste of Italy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or seeking a cozy family dinner, this dish brings the warm and comforting flavors of Italy straight to your table. In this article, we’ll guide you through making this flavorful dish, offer tips on how to get the perfect bake, and explore variations of this versatile recipe.
Ingredients
To make Italian Baked Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (or breasts, depending on preference)
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup tomato sauce (preferably homemade or a high-quality store-bought brand)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into wedges (optional)
Optional Variations:
- Add fresh or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions.
- Swap out the tomato sauce for a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baked chicken to develop a golden, crispy skin while staying juicy inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, rosemary, and paprika. This aromatic blend of herbs and spices will infuse the chicken with authentic Italian flavors. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken thighs or breasts, ensuring that each piece is fully coated.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken in a large, oven-safe baking dish. If you’re adding potatoes or other vegetables, arrange them around the chicken, making sure everything fits snugly but isn’t overcrowded. Pour the tomato sauce over the chicken and sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Covering baked chicken helps it retain moisture while cooking and prevents the surface from drying out prematurely.
Step 4: Bake and Check for Doneness
Bake the chicken for 35-40 minutes. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This will guarantee that your chicken is safe to eat while maintaining its tender texture.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Broil
Once the chicken reaches the correct temperature, remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top. Switch your oven to the broil setting and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your Italian Baked Chicken with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
- Pair with a fresh Caprese salad or a classic Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips:
- Why is baked chicken pink?: Sometimes baked chicken may have a pinkish hue near the bones, especially in younger chickens. This doesn’t necessarily mean it’s undercooked. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- What does covering baked chicken do?: Covering the chicken while baking traps steam and moisture, helping to keep the meat juicy. Removing the cover toward the end allows the chicken to crisp up nicely on the outside.
- What is baked chicken done at?: Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is the safest indicator to avoid overcooking or undercooking.
Variations:
- Italian Baked Chicken and Potatoes: For a heartier meal, add potatoes to the baking dish. Italian chicken and potatoes make for a classic pairing, with the starchy potatoes soaking up the flavorful juices from the chicken as they cook.
- Italian Baked Chicken Thighs or Breasts: While this recipe uses chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness, chicken breasts can also be used for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as breasts tend to cook faster than thighs.
- Easy Italian Baked Chicken: For a quicker version, skip the cheese and tomato sauce. Instead, bake the chicken with just olive oil, herbs, and spices for a simple yet delicious meal.
- Italian Chicken Recipes by Jamie Oliver: For fans of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, you can experiment with his take on Italian baked chicken by adding ingredients like lemon zest, anchovies, and fresh herbs for an even more robust flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
(Please note that nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portions used.)
Italian Baked Chicken is the perfect dish for anyone craving a flavorful and hearty meal with the unmistakable taste of Italy. This recipe combines the rich flavors of herbs, garlic, tomato, and cheese to create a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you prefer thighs or breasts, or want to mix things up with potatoes or vegetables, this recipe is endlessly versatile.