Cheesy chicken and vegetable bake is a hearty and delicious meal that combines tender chicken breasts with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all smothered in a blend of melted cheeses and flavorful seasonings. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a satisfying combination of protein and vegetables. Follow this simple recipe to create a cheesy, savory bake that will delight everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Slice the red, yellow, and green bell peppers, as well as the onion.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, and if they are particularly thick, you may want to pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet for more uniform cooking.
- Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened but still vibrant in color.
- Assemble the Bake:
- In a large baking dish, drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil and spread it around to coat the bottom.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly over and around the chicken breasts.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
- Bake the Dish:
- Transfer the baking dish to the hot oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 75°C or 165°F) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
- Serve warm, with your favorite sides or a simple salad.
Conclusion
This cheesy chicken and vegetable bake is a delightful and hearty meal that is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and melted cheese creates a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this bake is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful dinner. Give this recipe a try and savor the cheesy goodness of this satisfying dish!