Name: Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 6 large chicken thighs; kosher salt; black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small yellow onion; 2 garlic cloves; 1 cup Mezzetta® Roasted Red Bell Peppers; 1 cup Mezzetta® Pitted Castelvetrano Italian Olives; 1 cup yellow squash; 1 can tomato; ½ cup dry white wine; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tsp fresh thyme leaf; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley

This mezzetta baked chicken recipe is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will surely impress anyone who tries it. The dish is a savory blend of chicken thighs and a host of Mediterranean ingredients like roasted red bell peppers, Italian olives, and yellow squash that are cooked together for a taste that is simultaneously comforting and exotic.

Photos of Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are easily found in grocery stores, there are a couple that might need a bit of hunting. mezzetta® roasted red bell peppers and mezzetta® pitted castelvetrano Italian olives are specific brands of jarred peppers and olives that can be found in the international or pickle aisle of larger supermarkets. If you can't find these exact brands, any brand of roasted red bell peppers and pitted green olives will do.

Ingredients for the Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

Chicken thighs: These are the star of the dish. Juicy, and full of flavor, they can be found in the meat section of any grocery store.

Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables. It adds a subtle, fruity flavor to the dish.

Yellow onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.

Garlic: A key ingredient in many recipes, it adds a sharp flavor to the dish.

mezzetta® roasted red bell peppers, mezzetta® pitted castelvetrano Italian olives: These add a tangy and salty flavor to the dish and can be found in larger supermarkets.

Yellow squash: This adds color, texture, and a unique taste to the dish.

Tomatoes: They break down to form a rich and tangy sauce for the chicken.

White wine: This deglazes the pan and adds a subtle, sweet taste.

Butter: Adds a creamy, rich flavor to the dish.

Thyme, Red pepper flakes, and Parsley: These herbs add a fresh, earthy flavor and a hint of heat to the dish.

One reader, Gallard Torres says:

This mezzetta baked chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are out of this world, and the chicken turns out so tender and juicy. The combination of roasted red bell peppers and Italian olives is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and comforting meal.

Gallard Torres

Techniques Required for Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

How to prepare the chicken thighs: Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor and tenderness.

How to sauté the onion and garlic: Sauté the onion and garlic in the skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften, being careful not to burn them.

How to cook the tomatoes and white wine: After adding the diced tomatoes and white wine, bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and the sauce begins to reduce slightly.

How to bake the chicken: Nestle the chicken thighs into the sauce, skin-side up, leaving some of the skin exposed, and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily pulls away from the bone.

How to garnish and serve: After removing from the oven and letting it rest for 5 minutes, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve it to enjoy.

How To Make Mezzetta Baked Chicken

When it’s baked chicken again for dinner, it’s high time to spruce things up. This baked chicken recipe uses the finest of Mezzetta ingredients.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6largechicken thighsbone-in, skin-on
kosher saltto taste
black pepperfreshly ground, to taste
2tbspolive oil
1smallyellow oniondiced
2garlic cloveschopped
1cupMezzetta® Roasted Red Bell Peppersdrained, sliced in strips
1cupMezzetta® Pitted Castelvetrano Italian Olivesdrained and halved
1cupyellow squashor zucchini, or potatoes, sliced in ¼-inch (6 mm) thick half moons
1can tomatodiced
½cupdry white wine(or chicken stock)
2tbspunsalted butter
2tspfresh thyme leafchopped
¼tspred pepper flakes(optional)
1tbspfresh parsleychopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Season the chicken thighs generously with salt and pepper.
Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is very hot, add the olive oil and tilt to coat the pan.
Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook without disturbing for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3 minutes, until lightly browned on the other side. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then add the onion and garlic to the pan and sauté, stirring frequently, for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Watch carefully so they don’t burn.
Add the Mezzetta® Roasted Red Bell Peppers, Mezzetta® Pitted Castelvetrano Italian Olives, and yellow squash, then cook for 1 minute, stirring to combine.
Stir in the diced tomatoes and white wine, bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until tomatoes start to break down and the mixture begins to reduce slightly.
Fold in the butter, then add the chopped thyme and red pepper flakes, if using, and season with salt and pepper.
Nestle the chicken thighs into the sauce, skin-side up, leaving some of the skin exposed.
Transfer to the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily pulls away from the bone. Cover the pan loosely with foil if the skin starts to get too dark.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with the parsley and serve.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 857.84kcal
Fat: 51.05g
Saturated Fat: 14.34g
Trans Fat: 0.36g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.82g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.29g
Carbohydrates: 15.93g
Fiber: 2.65g
Sugar: 4.58g
Protein: 41.29g
Cholesterol: 246.60mg
Sodium: 1370.98mg
Calcium: 90.33mg
Potassium: 881.96mg
Iron: 3.77mg
Vitamin A: 147.51µg
Vitamin C: 46.39mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

When browning the chicken thighs, it's important to leave them undisturbed for the first 5 to 7 minutes. This allows the skin to get a good sear and become crispy. If you move the chicken too much during this initial cooking phase, it can prevent the skin from crisping up properly. Also, using a cast-iron skillet can help to distribute heat evenly, ensuring a perfect golden brown color on the skin.

Time-Saving Tips for Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make extra portions and freeze for future quick and easy meals.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils.

Time-saving tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to maximize efficiency by working on multiple tasks simultaneously.

Prep shortcuts: Use pre-cut vegetables, canned ingredients, and pre-made sauces to cut down on prep time.

Streamlined cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup time.

Quick cooking methods: Choose cooking methods like grilling, stir-frying, and broiling for faster cooking times.

Make-ahead marinades: Prepare marinades in advance to infuse flavor into meats without requiring additional cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs in this recipe. They have a similar flavor and texture, and they will work well with the other ingredients in the dish.
roasted red bell peppers - Substitute with fresh red bell peppers roasted: If you don't have jarred roasted red bell peppers, you can use fresh red bell peppers that have been roasted at home. Simply roast the fresh peppers in the oven or over an open flame until the skin is charred, then peel off the skin and use them in the recipe.
pitted castelvetrano Italian olives - Substitute with pitted Kalamata olives: Kalamata olives can be used as a substitute for castelvetrano olives. They have a rich, fruity flavor and a meaty texture that will complement the dish well.
yellow squash - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be used as a substitute for yellow squash in this recipe. They have a similar mild flavor and texture, and they will work well with the other ingredients in the dish.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken or vegetable broth: If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. This will still add depth of flavor to the dish without the alcohol content.
unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter in this recipe. It will add a rich, fruity flavor to the dish and can be used in the same quantity as the butter.
fresh thyme leaf - Substitute with dried thyme: If you don't have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme as a substitute. Use a smaller quantity of dried thyme, as it is more potent than fresh thyme.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can be used as a substitute for fresh parsley in this recipe. It will add a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presenting Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe in Style

Elevate the chicken thighs: Carefully arrange the crispy chicken thighs on the plate, ensuring they are positioned in an appealing manner to showcase their golden brown skin and succulent texture.
Artfully arrange the vegetable medley: Create a visually stunning display by arranging the mezzetta® roasted red bell peppers, pitted castelvetrano Italian olives, and yellow squash around the chicken, ensuring a balance of colors and textures.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish to add a pop of vibrant green color and a touch of freshness, enhancing the overall presentation.
Drizzle with reduction: Artfully drizzle a reduction of the flavorful tomato and white wine sauce around the plated dish, adding a touch of elegance and richness to the presentation.
Use elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the rustic yet refined nature of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience for the esteemed guests.

Essential Tools for Making Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty, durable pan that provides even heat distribution and is great for searing, sautéing, and baking.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Tongs: A kitchen tool with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting hot items.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
Baking dish: A glass or ceramic dish used for baking and roasting food in the oven.
Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for covering dishes and wrapping food for cooking.
Oven mitts: Insulated gloves used to protect hands when handling hot cookware and dishes.

Storing and Freezing Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

Let the baked chicken cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
Transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container or divide into individual portions in smaller containers.
If storing in the refrigerator, the baked chicken will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze, place the airtight container(s) in the freezer, where the dish will keep for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents.
When ready to reheat, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
To reheat, transfer the chicken and sauce to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Cooking times may vary depending on your microwave.
If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out and stir well.
Serve the reheated mezzetta baked chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

How To Reheat Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the moisture in the chicken and prevents it from drying out.
If you have a microwave with a reheat setting, you can use it to quickly reheat your leftover mezzetta baked chicken. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Reheat for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the chicken, as it can become rubbery and tough.
For a crispy skin, reheat the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, skin-side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover chicken while maintaining its crispy texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a flavorful twist, slice the leftover chicken and add it to a soup or stew. The chicken will absorb the flavors of the broth and add a delicious depth to the dish. Simmer the soup or stew until the chicken is heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Random Fact About Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

The Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted red bell peppers and pitted Castelvetrano Italian olives with tender chicken thighs. This recipe is a great way to incorporate the unique and savory taste of Mezzetta products into your meals.

Is Making Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe at Home Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this baked chicken recipe is quite high, as it utilizes affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, onions, and canned tomatoes. The addition of Mezzetta® roasted red bell peppers and pitted Castelvetrano Italian olives adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8 out of 10.

Is Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like:

Chicken thighs, which are a good source of protein
Vegetables such as onion, garlic, red bell peppers, and yellow squash
Tomatoes, which provide vitamins and antioxidants
Herbs like thyme and parsley, which offer flavor and potential health benefits

However, there are also some less healthy components:

The chicken skin, which is high in saturated fat
Olive oil and butter, which are high in calories and fat
White wine, which adds calories and alcohol
Olives, which are high in sodium

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Remove the chicken skin to reduce saturated fat intake
Use a smaller amount of olive oil and replace the butter with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil
Opt for low-sodium olives to reduce the overall salt content
Replace the white wine with low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on calories and alcohol
Increase the variety and quantity of vegetables to boost the dish's nutrient profile
Serve the chicken with a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to add fiber and complex carbohydrates

By incorporating more vegetables, herbs, and spices, you can enhance the dish's flavor profile while also increasing its nutritional value. For example, adding spinach or kale would provide additional vitamins and minerals, while using more garlic and herbs like oregano or basil could offer potential health benefits and reduce the need for excess salt.

Editor's Thoughts on the Delightful Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

This Mezzetta Baked Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy chicken thighs are complemented by the savory roasted red bell peppers, briny Italian olives, and tender yellow squash. The addition of white wine and tomatoes creates a rich and aromatic sauce that perfectly coats the chicken. The dish is elevated with a hint of thyme and a touch of red pepper flakes, adding depth and complexity. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and satisfying dining experience, perfect for a special dinner at home.

Enhance Your Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, served with a dollop of butter on top.

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi, tossed in a light honey-lime dressing.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Mezzetta Baked Chicken

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and onions in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Citrus Grilled Salmon: This zesty grilled salmon is marinated in a tangy citrus sauce and then grilled to perfection. The bright flavors of the citrus pair perfectly with the smoky char from the grill.

Mango Coconut Panna Cotta: This creamy and tropical dessert is made with coconut milk and fresh mango puree, then set with gelatin for a silky smooth texture. It's a refreshing and elegant way to end any meal.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal. Filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, they are sure to impress your guests.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful caprese skewers are a fresh and flavorful way to start your meal. With juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, they are a delightful appetizer for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This decadent dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a delicious meal.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, topped with a vibrant strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries. This classic dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Why trust this Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe:

This recipe features succulent chicken thighs seasoned to perfection and paired with mezzetta roasted red bell peppers and pitted castelvetrano Italian olives. The combination of yellow squash and tomatoes adds a delightful freshness, while the hint of dry white wine infuses a depth of flavor. With the addition of fresh thyme and a touch of unsalted butter, this dish promises a symphony of savory and aromatic notes. Trust in the quality of mezzetta products and the expertise behind this recipe for a truly exceptional dining experience.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Mezzetta Baked Chicken Recipe in our Recipe Sharing forum section. Join the conversation and let us know how this dish turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster than thighs. You may want to adjust the cooking time to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Can I substitute the dry white wine with something else?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. The wine adds a depth of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking it in the oven. Once you've assembled everything in the skillet, you can cover it and refrigerate it. When you're ready to enjoy the meal, simply bake it in the oven as directed.

Can I use a different type of olives if I can't find the Mezzetta® pitted Castelvetrano Italian olives?

Yes, you can use a different type of olives if you can't find the specified variety. Feel free to use your favorite type of pitted olives, such as Kalamata or green olives, to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish. Adjust the spiciness to your preference and enjoy the flavorful kick it adds to the dish.