Cheesy Baked Chicken Breast and Peppers Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Baked Chicken Breast and Peppers is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts baked with colorful bell peppers and topped with gooey cheese make for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 bell peppers (any color, thinly sliced)
• 1 small onion (thinly sliced, optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or a mozzarella-cheddar blend)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle evenly with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning into both sides of the chicken.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and onions with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange the vegetables around and on top of the chicken breasts.
4. Step 4: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Step 5: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken and peppers.
6. Step 6: Return the dish to the oven for another 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of rice, pasta, or a side salad.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mixture of mozzarella and cheddar for a richer, sharper cheese flavor.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a mild spicy kick.
• Swap bell peppers for poblano or sweet mini peppers for a different taste and color.
• For extra moisture, marinate the chicken in olive oil and seasonings for 30 minutes before baking.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To keep the chicken moist, cover with foil while reheating in the oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely before baking and check the internal temperature carefully.

Can I prepare 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. Add the cheese just before the final baking step.

Cheesy Baked Chicken Breast and Peppers Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.4 from 109 reviews

A delicious and easy-to-make Cheesy Baked Chicken Breast with colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner served alongside rice, pasta, or a fresh salad.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 28 minutes
• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

Vegetables

• 2 bell peppers (any color, thinly sliced)
• 1 small onion (thinly sliced, optional)

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or mozzarella-cheddar blend)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Season chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them, then evenly sprinkle Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning into both sides of the chicken breasts for full flavor.
3. Add peppers and onions: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced bell peppers and onion with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange the vegetables around and on top of the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish.
4. Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
5. Add cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately alongside your choice of rice, pasta, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

• Ensure the chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.
• You can use any color of bell peppers depending on your preference or availability.
• For a lower-fat version, reduce the amount of cheese or use part-skim mozzarella.
• The addition of onions is optional but adds extra flavor and sweetness to the dish.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: cheesy baked chicken, baked chicken breasts, chicken and peppers, easy chicken dinner, Italian seasoning chicken