Baked Italian Chicken Recipe

Pat dry chicken with paper towels and place in a bowl. Add olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and marinate in the refrigerator, covered, for at least 1 hour or overnight.

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sear chicken on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Place on a baking pan and set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F

Make the tomato sauce: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, and dried herbs. Add tomato paste and sauté until cooked. Add tomato sauce and brown sugar; mix well. If sauce is too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Bring to a boil; adjust seasoning if needed.

Pour tomato sauce over chicken and bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.

During the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking, top chicken with cheeses, basil, and oregano. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.