Italian Chicken
This Italian Chicken is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, all enhanced by the vibrant flavors of Italian dressing.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breasts Use chicken thighs for a richer taste.
- 1 cup Italian Dressing Homemade dressing can be used for control over ingredients.
- 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Dairy-free cheese is a good alternative.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Dried basil can also be used, but fresh is preferred.
- to taste Salt and Pepper Italian seasoning can be added for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking
- Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish.
- Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
- Scatter the cherry tomatoes around the chicken.
- Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
Serving
- Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Notes
Brine the chicken for added moisture, use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, and let it rest before cutting for juicy results. Variations include gluten-free options and adding herbs or spices.