How to Make a Flavorful Italian Chicken Dinner
If you're looking to prepare a flavorful Italian chicken dinner, you've come to the right place! Italian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and comforting meals. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious recipe for Italian chicken, ensuring a memorable dinner that your family and friends will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Make sure to coat them evenly for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the flavors and juices, enhancing your Italian chicken dinner.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach
Once the chicken is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt and combine with the chicken. This adds not only flavor but also a wealth of nutrients.
Step 4: Pour in Marinara Sauce
Next, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken and spinach mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. This provides that true Italian flair to your dish, with the sauce acting as a delicious base.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the chicken and sauce. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating a scrumptious topping that elevates the dish.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for an aromatic finish. Serve your flavorful Italian chicken dinner with a side of pasta, a crisp salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
With this Italian chicken dinner, you’re sure to impress your guests or make an ordinary weeknight meal special. Enjoy the mouth-watering flavors and the joy of Italian cooking right from your kitchen!