Title: Deliciously Easy Italian Dressing Chicken Recipe for Everyone
Growing up, my birthday dinner request was always Olive Garden, with my favorite being the fettuccine alfredo. But to me, the real star of the meal was the fresh salad with its tangy dressing, black olives, carrots, croutons, and Parmesan cheese. That zesty Italian dressing always brought back memories of upscale dining. So, when I discovered Olive Garden’s Signature Italian Dressing at my local store, I began using it to marinate chicken, and the result was pure nostalgia.
The beauty of this Italian dressing chicken recipe lies in its simplicity – just two ingredients: chicken breasts and a bottle of dressing. Marinating the chicken for even just 15 to 20 minutes can make a significant difference in flavor and tenderness. While longer marination can enhance the taste, I recommend not exceeding 3 hours to avoid mushiness.
If Olive Garden’s dressing isn’t your preference, you can experiment with alternatives like Wish-Bone Italian or Kraft Zesty Italian for a similar tangy and savory marinade.
To prepare four servings, you will need:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 1/2 to 3 pounds)
– 1/2 cup store-bought Italian dressing (e.g., Olive Garden Signature Italian)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat them thoroughly with the Italian dressing using tongs. Marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes or up to 3 hours.
2. Preheat the oven to 425°F, then bake the chicken until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, typically 25 to 35 minutes.
3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serve the Italian dressing chicken with sides like green beans, mashed potatoes, or over a bed of rice or couscous. The juices from the chicken and dressing create a delicious sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over your sides.
By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy a flavorful and tender chicken dish reminiscent of Olive Garden’s salads and dressings.
