One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken
If you’re searching for a dish that combines ease, flavor, and a touch of rustic charm, look no further than this One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce, this dish transports you straight to the heart of Italy, all from the comfort of your home. Plus, it’s a total breeze to clean up since everything cooks in one pan!
Why It Works Every Time
This One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken works beautifully due to its simple yet effective method of cooking. The chicken breasts remain juicy while absorbing the rich flavors of the vegetables and seasonings. The combination of bell peppers, onions, and garlic creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a feast for the senses. The Italian seasoning, along with the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, ties everything together in a warm, comforting sauce that clings to each bite.
What We’re Using
- 24 ounces boneless and skinless chicken breast (4 breasts total) – A lean protein that cooks perfectly in this dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavors and balances the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1/2 red bell pepper (cut into strips) – Sweet and colorful addition.
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper (cut into strips) – Adds a different flavor and more color.
- 1 yellow onion (cut into strips) – Provides sweetness and texture.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) – Essential for that aromatic base.
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes (canned, no sugar added) – The heart of the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the dish.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth – Adds moisture and flavor.
- 1/4 cup parsley (fresh, chopped) – For garnish and a fresh finish.
Appliances & Accessories
- Large skillet or sauté pan – Ideal for cooking everything in one pan.
- Cutting board – For chopping your vegetables and chicken safely.
- Chef’s knife – Essential for quick and efficient cutting.
- Measuring spoons – To ensure accuracy with your ingredients.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and serving the dish.
How to Prepare One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each breast with kosher salt and ground black pepper. This simple seasoning step enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Push the sautéed vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the seasoned chicken breasts. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is crucial for developing flavor.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Once the chicken is browned, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is nestled into the tomato mixture.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook Through
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). The sauce will reduce and thicken slightly during this time.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve the One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken hot, spooning the delicious sauce and vegetables over the chicken.
Ingredient Flex Options
- Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a richer flavor.
- Use zucchini or mushrooms instead of bell peppers for a different veggie profile.
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, for a unique twist.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
Cooking is all about balance and timing. Here are some common pitfalls you might encounter:
- Overcooked chicken: If your chicken is dry, reduce the cooking time next time. Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
- Too salty: If the dish turns out too salty, add a little more diced tomatoes or a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.
- Sauce too thin: If your sauce isn’t thickening, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes for it to reduce.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat, as that can dry out the chicken.
One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken Q&A
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, then reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Can I freeze One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just ensure it’s cooled before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
What can I serve with this dish?
This One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is quite versatile. Feel free to add spinach, kale, or other seasonal vegetables that you enjoy.
Before You Go
This One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it brings a touch of Italian warmth to your dining table. Plus, the ease of preparation and cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in this delightful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
One-Pan Rustic-Style Italian Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of each breast with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Push the sautéed vegetables to the side and add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is nestled in the sauce.
- Bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot, spooning the sauce and vegetables over the chicken.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance; reheat gently before serving.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with zucchini or mushrooms.
