Lorenzo Devereaux
Juicy, flavorful, and astonishingly simple—this Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken is a go-to solution for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday dinners. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this dish brings together tender chicken breasts, zesty Italian dressing, and rich Parmesan cheese for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.
The best part? It only takes a few minutes to get everything into the oven. While it bakes, your home fills with the savory aroma of herbs and cheese, promising a comforting, crave-worthy meal without the stress. Serve it with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded dinner.
Ingredients for this Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken Recipe
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian dressing (zesty or robust-style preferred)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the dish.
Step 2: Add the Flavor
Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is coated well. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. The cheese will help create a savory crust as it bakes.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving if you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when the chicken is cut.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and may be even juicier. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
What kind of Italian dressing works best?
Zesty or robust Italian dressings are ideal for this dish. They provide a punchy flavor that complements the Parmesan cheese.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken in the Italian dressing up to 24 hours in advance and add the cheese just before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure your Italian dressing and Parmesan cheese are labeled gluten-free.
What side dishes pair well with this?
This chicken is great with roasted vegetables, pasta, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Easy 3-Ingredient Italian Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 11 minute
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
This quick and flavorful dish transforms your ordinary chicken dinner into something extraordinary using just three pantry staples. Perfect for a quick dinner, easy recipe meal prep, or even a healthy snack idea, this chicken is juicy, cheesy, and packed with zesty flavor. Whether you need new dinner ideas or a no-fuss crowd-pleaser, this one’s a must-try. The golden baked finish and herby aroma make this a satisfying, family-friendly favorite.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian dressing (zesty or robust-style preferred)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly.
- Place chicken breasts in a single layer in the dish.
- Pour Italian dressing over the chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crisp top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dinner