Savor the warmth and flavor of a comforting meal with this delightful Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers recipe. Bursting with vibrant bell peppers, savory chicken, and gooey cheese, this dish is a feast for the senses. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to preference
- 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
- 3 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil
- Fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped, for garnishing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried oregano on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and chopped garlic. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and fragrant.
- Place the cooked chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the cooked bell peppers on top of the chicken.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and peppers.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil. Broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley leaves before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in Italian dressing or lemon juice and garlic before cooking.
- Add sliced onions or cherry tomatoes to the bell pepper mixture for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique twist on this recipe.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the chicken and peppers before baking.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless? A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken may take longer to cook through.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to the point of baking and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bake it according to the instructions.
Q: Can I use different types of peppers? A: Of course! Feel free to use any combination of bell peppers or even add spicy peppers such as jalapenos for an extra kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers that fits your dietary needs:
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a higher fat content.
- Substitute the bell peppers with low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, cauliflower, or broccoli.
- Replace the parmesan cheese with a keto-friendly cheese such as mozzarella or provolone.
- Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour as a coating for the chicken for a low-carb option.
With these substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while staying within your dietary goals.
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a versatile and flavorful dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you serve it as a main dish with a side of roasted vegetables or slice it up for sandwiches the next day, this recipe is a winner every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers.
