Easy Italian Chicken Recipes: Quick & Delicious Family Meals
Italian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting dishes. While elaborate Italian feasts are impressive, sometimes you just need a simple, delicious meal on the table quickly. That’s where these easy Italian chicken recipes come in! We’ve gathered a collection of our favorite Italian-inspired chicken dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. These recipes are designed to be both flavorful and easy to prepare, using readily available ingredients and straightforward instructions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these authentic-tasting Italian chicken creations!
## Why Chicken and Italian Flavors are a Perfect Match
Chicken is a versatile protein that absorbs flavors incredibly well, making it an ideal partner for the bold and aromatic ingredients found in Italian cooking. Think of the possibilities: juicy chicken breasts simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, seasoned with fragrant herbs like oregano and basil; tender chicken thighs marinated in lemon and garlic, then baked to golden perfection; or crispy chicken cutlets breaded with Parmesan cheese and Italian breadcrumbs. The combination is simply irresistible!
Italian flavors also tend to be crowd-pleasers, making them a safe bet for family dinners or potlucks. The use of familiar ingredients like garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and cheese makes these dishes accessible and comforting, even for picky eaters. Plus, Italian chicken recipes can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences. You can swap out ingredients, adjust seasonings, or add extra vegetables to create a personalized version of your favorite dish.
## Recipe 1: One-Pan Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and Vegetables
This recipe is a weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. The chicken and vegetables roast together in one pan, infusing each other with flavor. The lemon herb marinade adds a bright, zesty touch that perfectly complements the savory chicken and vegetables.
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 45 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 pound small red potatoes, quartered
* 1 red onion, cut into wedges
* 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
**Equipment:**
* Large baking sheet
* Mixing bowl
* Whisk
**Instructions**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. **Prepare the vegetables:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, red onion, carrots, and zucchini. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. **Arrange the vegetables:** Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. **Prepare the chicken:** In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, lemon juice, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. **Marinate the chicken:** Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet. Brush the chicken with the lemon herb marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
6. **Roast the chicken and vegetables:** Roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Rest and serve:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add more vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, or asparagus.
* **Use bone-in chicken:** Bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks can also be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
* **Make it ahead:** The vegetables can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use. The marinade can also be made in advance.
* **Serve with:** Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious pan juices, a simple green salad, or a side of quinoa or rice.
## Recipe 2: Creamy Tomato Basil Chicken Skillet
This creamy tomato basil chicken skillet is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. The creamy tomato sauce is rich and flavorful, and the fresh basil adds a touch of sweetness and freshness. This dish is perfect served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 20 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the chicken:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Sauté the aromatics:** Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Make the sauce:** Pour in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Combine and simmer:** Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. **Stir in basil:** Stir in the fresh basil just before serving.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or polenta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add vegetables:** Add your favorite vegetables to this dish, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Add them to the skillet along with the onion.
* **Use different cheese:** Try using mozzarella, provolone, or ricotta cheese instead of Parmesan.
* **Make it spicier:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
* **Use chicken thighs:** Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used in this recipe. They will take slightly longer to cook.
* **Make it lighter:** Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of this dish. You can also use low-fat cream cheese.
## Recipe 3: Chicken Parmesan with a Twist
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish, but we’re giving it a slight twist with a crispy panko breadcrumb coating and a touch of garlic in the tomato sauce. This recipe is still easy to make, but the extra effort is worth it for the delicious results. Serve with spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce
* 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
* Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
**Equipment:**
* 3 shallow dishes
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the chicken:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally in half, without cutting all the way through. Open them up like a book and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
2. **Set up the breading station:** Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
3. **Bread the chicken:** Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. **Brown the chicken:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
5. **Assemble and bake:** Transfer the browned chicken breasts to a baking sheet. Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. **Garnish and serve:** Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve immediately over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Italian breadcrumbs:** If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular Italian breadcrumbs instead. Add a little extra Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
* **Air fry the chicken:** For a healthier option, you can air fry the chicken instead of frying it in a skillet. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown.
* **Add vegetables:** Add a layer of sliced mushrooms or bell peppers under the marinara sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a little heat.
* **Use different cheese:** Try using provolone or asiago cheese instead of mozzarella.
## Recipe 4: Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Roasted Asparagus
This balsamic glazed chicken recipe is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The balsamic glaze is sweet, tangy, and slightly sticky, perfectly complementing the savory chicken. Served with roasted asparagus, this is a complete and elegant meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a fancy weeknight dinner.
**Yields:** 2 servings
**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 25 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
**Equipment:**
* Large skillet
* Small saucepan
* Baking sheet
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the asparagus:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
2. **Roast the asparagus:** Roast the asparagus for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
3. **Cook the chicken:** While the asparagus is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. **Make the balsamic glaze:** While the chicken is cooking, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
5. **Glaze the chicken:** Brush the balsamic glaze over the cooked chicken breasts, coating them evenly. Cook for another minute or two, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly.
6. **Serve:** Serve the balsamic glazed chicken with the roasted asparagus. Drizzle any remaining balsamic glaze over the asparagus, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use chicken thighs:** Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used in this recipe. They will take slightly longer to cook.
* **Add other vegetables:** Add other vegetables to the baking sheet along with the asparagus, such as bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes.
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the balsamic glaze for a little heat.
* **Marinate the chicken:** Marinate the chicken in the balsamic glaze for at least 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavor.
* **Serve with:** Serve with a side of quinoa, rice, or mashed sweet potatoes.
## Recipe 5: Chicken Cacciatore (Hunter’s Chicken)
Chicken Cacciatore, meaning “hunter’s chicken” in Italian, is a hearty and rustic stew featuring chicken braised in a rich tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs. This is a classic Italian comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. It’s typically served over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.
**Yields:** 6 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 1 hour 30 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a combination)
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
**Equipment:**
* Large Dutch oven or pot
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the chicken:** Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the pot and brown on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. **Sauté the vegetables:** Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
3. **Deglaze the pot:** If using, pour in the dry red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. **Add the tomatoes and sauce:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
5. **Simmer:** Return the chicken to the pot. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the chicken is very tender and cooked through.
6. **Garnish and serve:** Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving. Serve hot over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use boneless chicken:** If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Add olives:** Add a handful of Kalamata or green olives to the stew for extra flavor.
* **Add capers:** Add a tablespoon of capers to the stew for a briny touch.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stew for a little heat.
* **Use chicken broth:** If you don’t have red wine, you can use chicken broth instead.
## Tips for Success with Italian Chicken Recipes
* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The best Italian dishes start with the best ingredients. Use fresh herbs, good quality olive oil, and flavorful tomatoes for the best results.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** When browning chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. This will lower the temperature of the oil and prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Season generously:** Don’t be afraid to season your chicken and vegetables generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. These seasonings are essential for developing flavor.
* **Don’t overcook the chicken:** Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
* **Let the chicken rest:** After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* **Taste and adjust:** Always taste your dishes as you cook and adjust the seasonings to your liking. This is especially important when using canned tomatoes, as their acidity can vary.
* **Embrace simplicity:** Italian cooking is often about highlighting the natural flavors of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Don’t overcomplicate your dishes with too many ingredients or complex techniques.
* **Don’t be afraid to experiment:** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, seasonings, and cooking methods to create your own unique Italian chicken dishes.
## Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
These Italian chicken recipes are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when served with the right accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:
* **Pasta:** Spaghetti, penne, fettuccine, and other types of pasta are classic accompaniments to Italian chicken dishes.
* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or risotto are all good options.
* **Polenta:** Creamy polenta is a delicious and comforting side dish.
* **Mashed potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs well with many Italian chicken dishes.
* **Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad are all healthy and delicious sides.
* **Bread:** Crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauces.
* **Wine:** A glass of Italian wine is the perfect complement to any Italian meal. Choose a red wine like Chianti or a white wine like Pinot Grigio.
## Enjoy Your Easy Italian Chicken!
These easy Italian chicken recipes are a great way to bring the flavors of Italy to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. With their simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and delicious results, these dishes are sure to become family favorites. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to cook up a delicious and satisfying meal. Buon appetito!