Simple Chicken Italiano
A quick and flavorful Italian-inspired chicken dish featuring tender chicken strips, crisp vegetables, and a light Italian dressing, served over pasta and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines healthy ingredients with bold flavors that appeal to the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine chicken and about 1/3 of the Italian dressing.
- Saute until chicken starts to brown.
- Add vegetables and remaining dressing.
- Cover and simmer 7 to 9 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring frequently.
- Serve over hot cooked pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the Italian dressing for a few hours or overnight. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can also be added for more nutrition. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to include your favorite Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Simple Chicken Italiano over a bed of hot cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Chicken Lasagna Rolls or a side of Nonfat Pasta Primavera.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. This will help retain the dish's moisture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Chicken Italiano contains roughly 209 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for the frozen vegetables?
You can use any fresh vegetables you have on hand, such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they remain crisp-tender.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply replace the pasta with a gluten-free alternative, such as quinoa or gluten-free pasta. Additionally, check the Italian dressing to ensure it's gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).