If you’re looking for a super simple yet flavor-packed dish that can impress your family or guests, this Easy Italian Baked Chicken is your go-to. It’s one of those recipes that requires minimal prep, but the result is nothing short of amazing. You’ll be enjoying tender, juicy chicken coated in a savory blend of Italian spices in just about an hour. Perfect for weeknights when you need something quick, but still want to serve up a comforting, flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: This recipe is as straightforward as it gets. With just a few pantry staples and chicken, you’ll have a tasty, satisfying dinner ready in no time.
Full of Flavor: The Italian seasoning mix gives the chicken a beautifully herby, aromatic taste that perfectly complements the crispy, golden edges.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad. It’s incredibly adaptable to whatever you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients that will come together to make this chicken dish a winner:

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The star of the dish! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs will provide extra juiciness, but breasts are leaner.
Olive Oil: For coating the chicken and helping the seasoning stick while creating a crispy outer layer.
Italian Seasoning: This is a pre-mixed blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. It’s your shortcut to classic Italian flavor without any extra effort.
Garlic Powder: Adds a mild but savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the Italian seasoning.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best. It gives the chicken a deliciously savory, golden crust that adds both flavor and texture.
Salt and Pepper: These are the essentials for seasoning. They balance the flavors and bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brings brightness to the dish, making the rich flavors pop.

Variations

Looking to shake things up? Try these variations for a twist on the classic Italian baked chicken:

Add Spice: Want a bit of heat? Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to add a spicy kick.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to elevate the flavor.
Cheese Switch: Try mozzarella or provolone cheese instead of Parmesan for a different cheesy twist.
Vegetable Medley: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes around the chicken before baking for a one-pan meal.

How to Make Easy Italian Baked Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts or thighs. Rub it in evenly, ensuring that the entire surface is coated. Sprinkle the chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned on both sides.

Step 3: Add the Parmesan

Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each piece of chicken. The cheese will melt and create a crispy, golden crust during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken pieces). If you’re using larger chicken breasts, you may need to bake a bit longer. The chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon

Once the chicken is out of the oven, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top to add a zesty finish.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. When the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, it’s done!
Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Customize the Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more garlic powder for extra flavor or skip the salt if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Choose Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: If you love juicy, tender chicken, go for thighs instead of breasts. They’re more forgiving and can handle a little more cooking time.

How to Serve

This Italian Baked Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served with just about anything. Here are a few of the best pairings:

Side Dishes: Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans.
Pasta: Pair with your favorite pasta for a true Italian-inspired meal. A simple spaghetti with marinara sauce would be fantastic.
Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a light and refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Baked Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a little olive oil to keep it moist.

Freezing

This dish freezes really well. Place leftover chicken in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, you can use the microwave or a preheated oven. If using the oven, cover the chicken with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Bone-in chicken will work too, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. It will take a bit longer to cook through, so check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes to the seasoning or sprinkle some chili powder on top before baking. This will give the chicken a nice kick.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe. They’re more forgiving and will stay juicy even if baked a little longer.

4. Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven to bake.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Italian Baked Chicken is the perfect dinner for when you want something delicious without all the hassle. With its juicy, flavorful chicken and crispy Parmesan crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and incredible taste—what’s not to love? Give it a try tonight and enjoy the ease and flavor of homemade Italian cuisine!

Easy Italian Baked Chicken Recipe