Bell Pepper Chicken Bake is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the tenderness of chicken breasts with the sweetness of bell peppers. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering. Packed with nutrients and rich in taste, this dish offers a delightful experience for your taste buds while adding a splash of color to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 2 yellow bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to bake the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers, along with the sliced onion. Drizzle the vegetables with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring every piece is evenly coated before tossing them gently.
- Season the Chicken
Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Massage this flavorful blend onto the chicken breasts, ensuring an even distribution of spices across each piece.
- Assemble the Bake
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts snugly in a baking pan. Roast them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables reach a tender consistency. Spread the coated bell peppers and onions around and over the chicken breasts.
- Bake the Dish
Afterward, place the pan back in the oven for an extra 5 minutes until the cheese has melted into a delightful, bubbly layer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Pop the dish back into the oven and let it bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese reaches a gooey, bubbly perfection.
- Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese achieves its melty perfection, take the dish out of the oven. Sprinkle it generously with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch of freshness and color before serving. Serve the Bell Pepper Chicken Bake hot, alongside your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion
The Bell Pepper Chicken Bake is a delightful and visually appealing meal that combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with the vibrant flavors of bell peppers and onions. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, it will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and the burst of colors with every bite.