The Ultimate No-Fuss Chicken Dinner!
Craving a quick, easy, and ridiculously flavorful chicken recipe?
This Baked Brown Sugar Italian Chicken is your new go-to!
With just 3 simple ingredients and 30 minutes, you get juicy, caramelized chicken bursting with sweet and savory goodness.
No complicated steps, no long prep—just fast, foolproof, and family-approved.
Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast!
For Baked Brown Sugar Italian Chicken
- Chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy results, or substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
- Brown Sugar – Adds a caramelized sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
- Dry Italian Dressing Mix – A blend of herbs and spices that infuses the chicken with zesty, well-seasoned flavor.
Optional Additions
- Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle with parsley, basil, oregano, or thyme for an extra pop of freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – If you like a little heat, add a pinch for a mild kick.
- Salt & Pepper – Season to taste before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Baked Brown Sugar Italian Chicken
Ingredients
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 packet dry Italian dressing mix (do not prepare as directed on the packet)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or substitute chicken breasts)
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. (Avoid using a baking sheet, as the chicken will release juices during baking.)
Make the Seasoning Mix
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and dry Italian dressing mix.
Coat the Chicken
- Evenly coat both sides of the chicken pieces with the sugar-seasoning mixture.
- Place coated chicken into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle any remaining seasoning over the top.
Bake
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a digital thermometer for accuracy.
Optional Broil for Crispiness
- For a slightly crispier top, broil for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close watch—high sugar content can burn quickly.
Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley, basil, oregano, or thyme) if desired.
- Add salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to taste.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs well with:
Rice or quinoa
A fresh green salad
Roasted vegetables
Garlic bread
Storage & Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Keep in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently or enjoy cold in wraps, sandwiches, or salads.
Enjoy your easy, delicious Italian-style baked chicken!
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Of course! Both work great. Chicken thighs stay juicier, but if you’re using breasts, try pounding them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.
- Do I need to line the baking dish with foil?
Highly recommended! The brown sugar glaze gets sticky, so using foil or parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze. No scrubbing required!
- Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Pop the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Just know that you won’t get that same caramelized glaze as oven baking.
- What if I don’t have a dry Italian dressing mix?
No problem! You can DIY it by mixing: garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, parsley, sugar, salt, and pepper. Boom! Homemade magic.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or enjoy it cold in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
