Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken breasts are baked with sweet bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then topped with melted cheese for a satisfying, comforting meal. This one-pan recipe is loaded with protein, veggies, and cheesy goodness, making it a hit for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 bell peppers (assorted colors, sliced into strips)
- 1 large onion (sliced into strips)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan with olive oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this point, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Arrange the seared chicken breasts in the center of the prepared baking dish.
- Scatter the pepper and onion mixture around the chicken, distributing evenly throughout the dish.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken and Peppers
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the peppers are tender.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella (or cheddar) and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and peppers.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the dish from the oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.
Cook Notes
- Searing the Chicken: Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in moisture and adds flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the chicken straight away. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
- Cheese: Mozzarella and cheddar are both excellent choices, but you can also use provolone, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for extra flavor.
- Peppers: Use a variety of bell pepper colors (red, yellow, and green) to add sweetness and color to the dish.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken and Peppers: Add red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the chicken before adding the cheese for a spicy twist.
- Italian-Style: Add marinara sauce over the chicken breasts before topping with cheese for an Italian-inspired version.
- Creamy Version: Stir in 1/4 cup of cream or cream cheese into the veggies before baking for a creamier dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken and peppers in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover baked chicken and peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work just as well. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of vegetables used.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as rice, pasta, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread also makes a great accompaniment!
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy chicken, tender vegetables, and melted cheese, this one-pan meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Customize it to your liking and enjoy this delicious dish as part of your weekly meal rotation