Easy Italian Chicken

Italian baked chicken served with rotini pasta topped with chunky tomato sauce and grated Parmesan.

No ratings yet

This Easy Italian Chicken combines tender chicken, a flavorful tomato sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella for a comforting, family-friendly dinner. Add this simple recipe to your list of busy weeknight meals!

Prep Time20

Cook Time30

Total Time50

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: Italian

Servings:

Calories: 410kcal

Author: Valerie Brunmeier

Ingredients

2 to 2¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large or 3 medium)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil plus additional if needed
2 14.5-ounce cans Italian-style diced tomatoes undrained
2 tablespoons cornstarch
½ teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese packed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Slice the thicker chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 to 5 cutlets. If needed, lightly pound the thicker pieces to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over MEDIUM-HIGH heat. Working in batches, if necessary, cook the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until browned but not cooked through, adding additional olive oil as needed. Transfer the chicken to a 9- x 13-inch baking dish, arranging it in a single layer. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Add the undrained tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the tomatoes and whisk until no lumps remain. Stir in the basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Return the skillet to MEDIUM heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce comes to a simmer and thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the chicken. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Serve with cooked pasta or rice, or with garlic bread and a green salad.

Notes

Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or larger portions in a covered baking dish in a 325 degree F oven until warmed through.

Nutrition