Description
Baked Italian Chicken Dinner
Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small onion, chopped
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish.
Prepare ingredients: In a large bowl, toss chicken, broccoli, potatoes, and onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Arrange in baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Bake: Cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F) and the vegetables are tender.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired and serve hot!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
#ItalianChicken #HealthyDinners #OnePanMeals #EasyRecipes #VegetableLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect one-pan meal every time. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 400°F. While it heats, thoroughly dry the cubed chicken and diced potatoes with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving a good roast instead of steaming. In your largest mixing bowl, combine the olive oil and all dry seasonings to create a flavorful coating before adding any ingredients. Add the potatoes first, tossing to coat, as they benefit most from the oil. Then, add the chicken, broccoli, and onion, gently folding everything together to avoid breaking the broccoli florets. Spread the mixture in a single, even layer in your greased dish, ensuring nothing is piled up. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the dish and stir thoroughly, bringing the outer pieces to the center. Return to the oven for a final 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness as noted.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs beautifully with several sides. For a complete Italian feast, serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and a slice of crusty garlic bread to soak up the juices. To stretch it for a larger family, toss the baked dinner with cooked pasta like penne or farfalle, adding a splash of pasta water and extra Parmesan to create a light sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it over a bed of fresh spinach or zucchini noodles, allowing the heat to gently wilt the greens.
How-to Summary
Cube chicken and dice potatoes. Toss all ingredients with oil and seasonings in a bowl. Spread evenly in a greased baking dish. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway. Garnish with Parmesan and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs will yield a juicier result and can withstand slightly longer cooking without drying out. Adjust cooking time by 3-5 minutes if needed.
How can I prevent the broccoli from becoming mushy? Ensure your florets are large and uniformly sized. Cutting the broccoli crowns into quarters, rather than small pieces, helps them retain texture during roasting.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes? No, leaving the skin on adds nutrients, texture, and saves prep time. Just scrub them well before dicing.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can chop and combine all ingredients in the bowl 1-2 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator, then toss again and bake when ready.
What are good substitutes for Italian seasoning? Create your own blend with equal parts dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. A teaspoon of herbes de Provence also works well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this steams the food instead of roasting it. Use two baking dishes if necessary. Do not skip stirring halfway through cooking; this ensures even browning and prevents burning. Ensure your chicken pieces are uniformly cubed (about 1-inch) so they cook at the same rate as the vegetables. Finally, do not neglect to preheat your oven fully, as a proper initial blast of heat is key for texture.
Conclusion
This Baked Italian Chicken Dinner is the epitome of a reliable, healthy, and flavorful weeknight solution. By combining lean protein and vibrant vegetables with robust Italian herbs, all cooked on a single pan, it delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal cleanup. Its flexibility with ingredients and sides makes it a recipe you can return to again and again, adapting it to what’s in season or in your pantry. Give this method a try for a stress-free dinner that the whole table will enjoy.