Name: Italian Dressing Chicken and Veggie Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1/2 red onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Italian Dressing Chicken and Veggie Bake is a one-pan meal that brings together tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing, creating an effortless and delicious dish. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a wholesome meal without much hassle. The chicken turns out juicy and packed with flavor, while the vegetables become tender and infused with the savory dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make, yet full of flavor. The Italian dressing adds a tangy and herbaceous punch to both the chicken and the vegetables, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to whatever veggies you have on hand. The best part? It all cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or something that’s both healthy and satisfying, this dish is a winner.

Italian Dressing Chicken and Veggie Bake

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
1 bell pepper (sliced)
1 zucchini (sliced)
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour in the Italian dressing. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight if you have time).
Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables. Halve or quarter the baby potatoes, slice the bell pepper and zucchini, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Assemble the Dish: Lightly grease a large baking sheet or roasting pan with olive oil. Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in the center of the pan. Surround the chicken with the prepared vegetables.
Bake the Dish: Drizzle a little olive oil over the veggies and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 2 servings and takes about 45-50 minutes from start to finish, including prep time. It’s a great option for a quick and healthy dinner.

Variations

Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus, depending on what you have in your fridge.
Use Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the vegetables for a little heat or a drizzle of hot sauce on top of the chicken before serving.
Use Homemade Dressing: If you want a more customizable flavor, make your own Italian dressing by combining olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and dried herbs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Italian Dressing Chicken and Veggie Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken and veggies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, though the veggies may lose some of their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, though fresh vegetables will hold up better and provide a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them before adding to the pan to avoid excess moisture.

Can I use different types of dressing?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of dressing, like ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, but Italian dressing gives the dish its signature tangy and herbaceous flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that the Italian dressing you use is also gluten-free. Most store-bought dressings are, but always check the label to be sure.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the veggies in advance, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cook the dish within 1-2 days of marinating.

Can I cook this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Place the marinated chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

To keep the chicken moist, be sure to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.

Can I use other proteins in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for other proteins like beef chops or fish fillets. Cooking times may vary, so be sure to adjust based on the protein you’re using.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, you can sprinkle some shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or crumbled feta on top of the chicken and vegetables during the last 5-10 minutes of baking for added flavor.

Can I use a different kind of potato?

Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon gold or russet potatoes, but make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe without marinating the chicken?

While marinating the chicken enhances the flavor, you can skip this step if you’re short on time. The Italian dressing will still flavor the chicken during cooking.

Conclusion

Italian Dressing Chicken and Veggie Bake is the perfect one-pan meal that brings together the flavors of marinated chicken, tender vegetables, and a zesty dressing. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, this dish is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a weekend gathering. The juicy chicken and flavorful veggies make every bite satisfying, and you can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Enjoy this simple yet delicious dish that’s packed with flavor and ready in no time!

Jane