Introduction:
Get the ultimate comfort food experience with this Cheesy Chicken and Peppers Bake recipe. It perfectly combines succulent chicken, lively peppers and rich cheese to create a delightful dish that is easy to prepare but full of flavor. Whether you want a cozy dinner for two or a relaxed gathering, this meal will work just fine. Prepare to amaze your family with this nourishing and filling dinner.
Ingredients:
4 Non-fatty boneless chicken breasts
2 Bell peppers (of any colour), cut into strips
1 thinly sliced onion
2 minced garlic cloves
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano,
1 teaspoon dried thyme,
1 teaspoon paprika,
Salt, pepper to taste,
Cooking oil for frying with olive oil.
Instructions:
Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish using olive oil then set aside.
Sprinkle salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme and paprika on both sides of the chicken breasts.
In the middle skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until both sides are golden brown; about 4-5 minutes per side. Get them out of the skillet after that.
If necessary add some more olive oil in the same skillet. Fry sliced bell peppers along with onions and minced garlic until they become soft and start smelling good in about 5-7 minutes.
Fit in the prepared baking dish, the cooked chicken breasts..Top each chicken breast with the sautéed peppers, onions, and garlic.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over chicken and peppers.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil; then bake at 20-25 minutes preheated oven until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown cheese is slightly crispy.
If you wish, serve hot with fresh herbs as a garnish. Enjoy!
Hints for Success:
To give it more flavor, marinate your favorite marinade for some hours before cooking it in the oven of these chicken breasts.
To cook Chicken without Browning Unevenly Do Not Fill Up The Skillet Too Much.
Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes into this meal.
Slice your peppers and onions very thinly if you want them to cook faster and distribute flavors better.
These leftovers can be kept in airtight containers in a refrigerator for up to three days’ time.
Health Benefits:
Chicken provides lean protein that is essential for muscle repair and growth
Vitamin C is available in bell pepper which supports immune health as well as collagen production.
Garlic has compounds that may help lower blood pressure while also improving heart health.
For the heart health, moderate amount of olive oil can be used to add healthy fats in the dish.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Variations and Substitutions:
For a richer flavor, use boneless skinless instead of boneless chicken breasts.
The other option could be using different types of cheese such as pepper jack, provolone, or Swiss for a unique twist.
Before baking, a kick of heat can also be added by sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños over the dish.
To get a low-carb option, you can serve your Cheesy Chicken and Peppers Bake on cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Fresh chicken breast is recommended because of its flavor and texture. However, if you have thawed out breasts then go ahead just ensure that they are patted dry before seasoning and cooking them.
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Assembly is handy here because you can put together all ingredients necessary for making Cheesy Chicken and Peppers Bake until ready to bake. All you have to do is cover it with foil in a baking dish then store it in a refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just follow the instructions given on how to bake.
Q: Are leftovers freezable? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover food in an airtight container for three months. Thaw them overnight in your fridge and reheat them using either oven or microwave.