Simply Italian Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in flavorful Italian salad dressing, perfect for a quick, tangy, and satisfying meal suitable for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in Italian salad dressing overnight.
- Place on a hot barbecue grill and cook for 30 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the Italian salad dressing for at least 8 hours or overnight. If you want to enhance the dish, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the marinade. You can also substitute with homemade Italian dressing if you prefer. This simple marinade technique is a great foundation for many Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Simply Italian Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Penne for a comforting dinner, or you can serve it on a bed of rice or alongside garlic bread. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a baking dish covered with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simply Italian Chicken contains roughly 283 calories, with 6g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1009mg per serving (44% 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 chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are juicier and more flavorful, which works well with the marinade. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a little longer to cook through compared to breasts.
What can I do if I don’t have a grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the marinated chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just place the chicken and dressing in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This is a great way to prep ahead for busy days.
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).