Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors to your dinner table, combining tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a gooey cheese topping. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe, perfect for those evenings when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The vibrant colors of the peppers not only make this dish visually appealing but also pack it with vitamins, making it a healthy choice for your family.
I still vividly recall the first time I made Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers. We had just settled into our new home, and I was eager to host a memorable housewarming dinner. While browsing for something unique yet comforting, I stumbled upon this recipe. It was an instant hit, filling our new home with delightful aromas and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Since that special evening, this dish has secured a regular spot in our meal rotation, always bringing back fond memories of that day.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Friendly Instructions:
Get Your Oven Ready: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake.
Mix It Up: In a big mixing bowl, toss together the chicken breasts, chopped garlic, paprika, oregano, a good pinch of salt and pepper, and olive oil. Stir everything well to make sure the chicken is well-coated with the seasonings and oil.
Add Some Color: Throw in the sliced bell peppers to the bowl with your seasoned chicken. Give it another mix to ensure that the peppers mingle well with the chicken and soak up some of those flavors.
Prepare the Dish: Transfer everything into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading out the chicken and peppers evenly.
Cheese It Up: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. This will create a lovely cheesy crust as it bakes.
Bake to Perfection: Slide your dish into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is thoroughly cooked, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
Enjoy Your Meal: Serve it hot, straight from the oven and watch as it disappears from the plates!
Variations and Substitutions:
Cheese Varieties: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella or a spicy Pepper Jack can bring a new dimension to the dish.
Add Some Crunch: For a bit of crunch, add a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking.
Spice It Up: If your family enjoys a bit of heat, add some chili flakes to the seasoning mix or slice up a jalapeño and toss it in with the bell peppers.
This Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers recipe not only satisfies the palate but also offers a comforting, wholesome meal that you can whip up with minimal fuss. It’s a fantastic way to bring everyone to the table, enjoying a meal that is both hearty and healthy. Give it a try, and it might just become your next family favorite!