Italian chicken bake
Introduction
We can never have too many delicious and quick chicken recipes, can we?! You’ll love this healthy, juicy Italian Baked Chicken Recipe. Boneless skinless chicken breasts prepared with a simple spice mixture, garlic and olive oil, and finished with fresh parsley and basil! Afraid to serve dry chicken breasts? Be sure to check out my tips and watch the video at the bottom of this post.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Boneless skinless chicken breasts are a great source of lean protein, which is why they are a dieter’s best friend. They are also convenient and tend to be less intimidating to cook than bone-in chicken thighs (this cilantro lime chicken is my favorite thigh recipe, by the way). But, even renowned chefs will tell you that boneless skinless chicken breasts are the least forgiving. Let’s face it, they can just be plain boring and, often times, dry. Not this Italian baked chicken recipe. Just a few tips ensure this easy baked chicken recipe is flavorful and juicy. You’ve got this, trust me!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Food processor
- Grill or grill pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons of toasted almonds
- 1 package fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 tablespoons of water
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 Italian baking tray
- 2 medium zucchini pieces
- 2 red onions, chopped into thick slices
- 4 lemons, divided into halves
- 2 chicken breasts, seasoned with salt and pepper
- Mixed lettuce, to serve
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the roasted almonds in a food processor, add the chopped parsley, slowly pour olive oil and water, and add the lemon zest. Season the pesto sauce with salt and pepper until the mixture is well blended.
- Cut Italian bread, zucchini, and red onions into thick slices. Add the halves of the lemon, stir the mixture with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill the mixture until the vegetables are soft, and the lemon and bread are slightly grilled.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and grill until soft. Brush the bread with the pesto sauce. Serve the chicken dish with mixed lettuce.
Tips for Success
- Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking.
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it juicy.
- Let the grilled vegetables cool slightly before serving for the best flavor.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Try using different herbs like basil or cilantro in the pesto for a different flavor profile.
- Add some cherry tomatoes for a burst of color and sweetness.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While the exact nutritional content will vary based on portions and specific products used, this dish is rich in protein from the chicken and almonds, and provides healthy fats from the olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What can I use instead of almonds?
Try using walnuts or pine nuts as an alternative to almonds.
Conclusion
Give this Italian chicken bake a try and experience the delicious combination of juicy chicken, flavorful pesto, and grilled vegetables. I can’t wait to hear what you think, so be sure to share your experiences in the comments below!