Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers recipe combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a trio of colorful bell peppers, all blanketed in melted cheddar and Parmesan cheese. It’s a one-pan meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. The juicy peppers and rich seasonings create a flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
One-Pan Convenience: Everything comes together in one baking dish, making this recipe ideal for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without the mess.
Bold Flavors: The combination of garlic, paprika, and oregano with the melted cheese creates a wonderfully rich and savory profile.
Nutritious and Colorful: With three types of bell peppers and lean chicken breast, this dish is both visually appealing and packed with nutrients.
Customizable: You can easily swap or add ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, making this a versatile, go-to recipe.
Key Ingredients:
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are convenient and cook quickly in the oven. For an alternative, try boneless chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds color and a balance of sweet and slightly bitter flavors. Feel free to adjust based on what’s available or add orange peppers for even more variety.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts smoothly and adds a sharp, cheesy flavor, while Parmesan provides a hint of nuttiness and a golden crust. If you like, experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for extra gooeyness.
Paprika and Oregano: These spices bring warmth and depth to the chicken. Smoked paprika can be used if you want a smoky undertone.
Olive Oil: This keeps the chicken and peppers moist during baking. Use extra-virgin olive oil for a more robust flavor or swap with avocado oil if preferred.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set the Oven Temperature: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure the dish cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Prepare Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Add Seasonings: Add chopped garlic, paprika, dried oregano, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Add Olive Oil: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and seasonings, then toss until the chicken is evenly coated. This will ensure flavorful and tender chicken.
Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers
Slice and Mix: Slice the red, yellow, and green bell peppers thinly and add to the bowl with the seasoned chicken. Toss again to coat the peppers with the seasonings. This adds flavor, texture, and a colorful presentation to the dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Transfer to Dish: Arrange the chicken and pepper mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread everything out to ensure even cooking and a balanced mix of chicken and peppers in each bite.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle Cheese: Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken and peppers. The cheese will melt into a deliciously gooey and golden topping.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. The bell peppers should be tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish with Garnish: Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for added color and flavor.
Serve: Serve the Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers hot from the oven. Enjoy the comforting flavors and cheesy goodness!
Serving Suggestions:
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for sides and accompaniments:
Rice or Quinoa: Serve with steamed rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce.
Pasta: A simple pasta, such as penne or spaghetti, works beautifully alongside this dish for a hearty meal.
Roasted Potatoes: Oven-roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs and garlic make a tasty pairing.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to mop up the cheesy, flavorful sauce.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
This dish stores well, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Storage: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Allow the chicken and peppers to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second increments until hot.
Recipe Variations:
Add Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms make a great addition, adding an earthy flavor that pairs well with the cheese and peppers.
Use Different Cheese: For an extra gooey topping, try mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of cheddar and Parmesan.
Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning for a spicy kick.
Balsamic Drizzle: For a sweet and tangy contrast, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the dish just before serving.
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh thyme or rosemary along with the parsley for added herbal notes.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. With colorful bell peppers, tender chicken, and a golden cheesy topping, it’s a wonderful go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The flavors come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s sure to be a family favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the satisfying combination of cheesy goodness and fresh, vibrant peppers!
