Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Seasoned Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a robust blend of Italian herbs and spices. Whether served with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables, this recipe is quick to prepare and full of aromatic, savory flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it brings a taste of Italy to your table with minimal effort.

Italian Seasoned Chicken

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a small bowl, combine basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub each piece with olive oil, then coat evenly with the Italian seasoning mixture.
Cook the Chicken:
- Option 1 – Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook 5-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Option 2 – Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Option 3 – Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
Finish with Lemon:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken for a bright, tangy flavor.
Serve:
- Serve the Italian seasoned chicken with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 30 minutes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Marinated Chicken: Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
Creamy Italian Chicken: Top cooked chicken with a light cream sauce and sun-dried tomatoes for a rich variation.
Stuffed Chicken: Fill chicken breasts with mozzarella and spinach before baking for a delicious stuffed version.
Spicy Italian: Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a subtle heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work perfectly with this seasoning.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

3. Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store in the refrigerator.

4. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then sear in a skillet for color.

5. How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is mild; red pepper flakes can be added for heat.

6. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, use three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried.

7. How can I make it extra tender?

Marinating the chicken in lemon juice or olive oil for 30 minutes helps make it more tender.

8. Can I bake it with vegetables?

Yes, add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for a one-pan meal.

9. How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and cook in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

Italian Seasoned Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that brings the aromatic taste of Italy to your table. With its simple seasoning and juicy texture, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can easily be adapted for meal prep or dinner parties. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this chicken recipe is destined to become a family favorite.