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Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken and vegetables.
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and paprika. Be sure to rub the spices in to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Peppers and Onion
- Sauté the Veggies: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and become slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
- Season: Season the peppers and onions with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Layer the Chicken and Veggies: In a baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Top each piece of chicken with the sautéed peppers and onions, spreading them evenly over the chicken.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle both the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken and vegetable mixture. This will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a delicious, cheesy topping.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: For a golden, crispy finish, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the chicken and cheese before baking.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Optional Browning: If you prefer a crispier cheese crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy baked chicken and peppers on its own or alongside a simple side like rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers:
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish for added flavor and texture.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the peppers and onions for a spicy kick.
- Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, simply adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature. Bone-in chicken may take a bit longer to cook.
- Use Different Cheeses: Mozzarella is classic, but you can experiment with other types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different flavors and textures.
- Meal Prep Option: This recipe can be easily doubled or made ahead for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers:
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.
- One-Pan Wonder: The chicken and veggies all cook together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
- Flavorful: The blend of melted cheese, tender chicken, and sautéed peppers and onions offers a perfect balance of flavors, from savory and cheesy to sweet and caramelized.
- Healthy and Filling: The chicken provides lean protein, and the peppers add vitamins and fiber, making this a balanced and wholesome meal.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. The tender chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and cheesy topping come together in a delicious harmony that will leave you craving more. With its customizable ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Try it today for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
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