Description
A delicious and easy-to-make Cheesy Baked Chicken Breast with colorful bell peppers, seasoned perfectly and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner that combines protein and veggies in one flavorful bake.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 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 cheese (or mozzarella-cheddar blend)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Season chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken, then evenly sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper on both sides. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to coat thoroughly.
- Add peppers and onions: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced bell peppers and onions with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Arrange the vegetables evenly around and on top of the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Add cheese: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken and peppers. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve hot: Once the cheese has melted, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your choice of rice, pasta, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Feel free to use any color combination of bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- If you prefer, omit the onion or substitute with shallots or green onions.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with peppers and cheese
- Calories: 370 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: cheesy baked chicken, chicken breast recipe, baked bell peppers and chicken, easy chicken dinner, mozzarella chicken bake
