Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken Recipe

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Dinner doesn’t get much easier than this juicy, flavor-packed 3-ingredient Italian chicken. With just a bottle of zesty Italian dressing, some tender chicken breasts, and a touch of optional seasoning, you can have a delicious, oven-baked main course that tastes like it took hours. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want something simple for weeknight dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to favorites.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Serve it with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, over a bed of rice, or sliced onto a fresh salad. The tangy marinade caramelizes slightly during baking, locking in moisture and flavor in every bite.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe since they absorb the marinade quickly and cook evenly. You can also use boneless thighs for a juicier, more tender result. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly if using larger or bone-in cuts.

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Ingredients for the Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: The star of the show. Choose boneless, skinless for the quickest and most consistent results.
• Italian Dressing: This is your all-in-one marinade. It tenderizes the meat and adds bold, herby flavor. Choose a zesty or robust Italian for extra punch.
• Optional Seasoning (like garlic powder or Italian herbs): A dash of extra seasoning can elevate the dish even more. Totally up to your taste!

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How To Make the Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and help with cleanup.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the Italian dressing over the chicken until fully coated. If you have time, marinate it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish, pouring any remaining dressing on top. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This helps keep the juices locked in and the meat tender.

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Serving and Storing Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken

This chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with almost anything. Serve it alongside buttery mashed potatoes, a side of roasted green beans, or slice it up for wraps, salads, or pasta bowls. It also makes a fantastic sandwich filling when paired with a toasted bun and melted cheese.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to retain moisture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken?

While 30 minutes will do the trick, marinating overnight gives the best flavor. But in a pinch, you can even bake it right away and still enjoy tasty results.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken first. Marinating frozen chicken won’t be effective, and it will cook unevenly.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! Cook a batch, slice it up, and store it in portions for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I grill this chicken instead?

Definitely. Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. The Italian dressing will still give it a great charred flavor.

What kind of Italian dressing is best?

Go for zesty or robust Italian dressing for the most flavorful outcome. Avoid creamy versions as they don’t caramelize as well when baked.

Can I use other proteins?

Yes! Try this method with boneless pork chops or even salmon. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this easy Italian chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a cheesy, meaty comfort meal.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli if you’re into rich pasta dinners.
• Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes for a hands-off hearty dish.
• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce when you’re craving seafood simplicity.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for more buttery chicken goodness.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you marinate overnight or go the quick route? Did you use it in a salad or serve it with pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier meals.

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