Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Italian Baked Chicken is a flavorful, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Marinated in classic Italian herbs and baked to juicy perfection, this chicken is tender, savory, and deliciously satisfying. Serve it with your favorite sides or over pasta for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.

ingredients

Easy Italian Baked Chicken Recipe for Everyone

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

chicken breasts or thighsolive oilgarlic (minced)dried oregano dried basildried thymeonion powderpaprika salt and peppergrated Parmesan cheesefresh parsley (for garnish)optional: cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for baking

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.

Coat the chicken pieces evenly in the marinade and let sit for at least 15 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Place the marinated chicken in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Optionally, add cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers around the chicken for extra flavor and color.

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 15 minutes (or longer if desired)Baking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Add mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.

Serve over pasta or rice for a hearty meal.

Swap dried herbs for fresh ones if available.

Include zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus for a one-pan dish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.For longer storage, freeze baked chicken for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, just adjust the baking time to 35-45 minutes or until fully cooked.

Is this dish spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely—marinate the chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, use triple the amount of fresh herbs for the same flavor.

What side dishes go well with this?

Try roasted vegetables, garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I grill this chicken instead?

Yes! Grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side.

What if I don’t have all the herbs?

Use Italian seasoning as a convenient substitute.

Can I cook this in a skillet?

You can start it in a skillet and finish in the oven, or fully cook on stovetop if preferred.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Don’t overbake and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

This Easy Italian Baked Chicken is a comforting, flavorful meal that brings everyone to the table. With its savory herb coating and juicy texture, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a staple in your kitchen.