ZESTY ITALIAN CHICKEN THIGHS

These zesty chicken thighs are made with just dry Zesty Italian dressing, brown sugar and chicken thighs for an easy meal the whole family will love.

From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito

These zesty Italian chicken thighs recipe is one of those effortless, throw it together dinners that tastes like you tried way harder than you actually did on it. With just a few pantry staples, you get tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky and savory glaze. This is pure comfort food. No marinating or no complicated prep, just mix, bake, baste, and let the oven do the work. It couldn't be easier to make and is perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

The combination of sweet brown sugar and zesty Italian seasoning creates a sauce that caramelizes beautifully as it bakes. Leaving the dish uncovered allows the chicken to brown while the sauce thickens and clings to every bite. A quick baste halfway through ensures maximum flavor and juiciness. My family absolutely loves this one and I know you will, too!

Instructions

Here is how to make this delicious dinner. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions in the recipe card below.

Preheat the oven to 350.

First, add the chicken thighs, dry zesty Italian dressing and brown sugar to a to a 9 x 13" baking dish. Mix everything together until it’s evenly coated onto the chicken thighs.

PRO TIP: I like to mix the ingredients into the chicken using food safe gloves to really get it nice and coated.

NOTE: If there is extra fat on the chicken thighs, feel free to trim it.

Now, place it into the center rack of the oven, uncovered, for 30 minutes. Take the chicken out of the oven and baste it in all the juice that it made when cooking. Place it back in the oven for another 30 minutes.

PRO TIP: Placing the baking dish in the center rack of the oven will allow the hot air of the oven to circulate better and allow the chicken to cook evenly.

NOTE: Baking it uncovered allows the sauce to thicken and and caramelize instead of steaming the chicken.

Finally, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Spoon some of the sauce over it, garnish with parsley (optional) and enjoy!

PRO TIP: Allowing the chicken to rest will let the sauce thicken up and the sauces redistribute so the chicken is nice and juicy.

What Can I Serve This With?

This zesty Italian chicken thighs are fantastic served with rice, potatoes or vegetables like Frozen Roasted Green Beans or Roasted Garlic Parmesan Broccoli.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead Of Thighs?

Yes, you can but thighs are perfect for this because they stay juicy and don't dry out like chicken breasts can.

Can This Be Made Ahead Of Time?

Yes, this can be made ahead of time. Assemble everything for up to 24 hours in advance and place it, covered, into the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it into the oven.

Can I Use Another Italian Dressing Packet?

Yes, you can for sure. The Zesty Italian Dressing packet works great for this but the Garlic And Herb or the Original Italian favor would both be great options for this recipe.

Storage

Let the chicken cool completely and place it into an air tight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.