Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the ultimate comfort food: cheesy baked chicken and peppers! Seriously, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. The tender, juicy chicken perfectly complements the vibrant, sweet bell peppers, all smothered in gooey, melted cheese. It’s just the right balance of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance with joy! I love how easy it is to throw together, yet it feels so special and satisfying. Plus, the marinara sauce adds a lovely richness that ties everything together beautifully. Trust me, once you try this cheesy baked chicken and peppers, it’ll become a staple in your home-cooked meals. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. So, let’s get cooking and bring some cheesy goodness to your dinner table!
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Alright, let’s gather our ingredients for this cheesy baked chicken and peppers masterpiece! You’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless works best for tenderness)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (feel free to mix colors for a vibrant dish—red, yellow, and green all work beautifully)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (because what’s cheesy baked chicken without a generous layer of melty cheese?)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, just make sure it’s packed with flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for that lovely, rich taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a nice depth of flavor)
- Salt to taste (I usually go for a good pinch!)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is my favorite!)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but incredibly delicious. Make sure you have everything ready to go; it’s time to dive into the cooking fun!
How to Prepare Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Now that we have our ingredients all set, let’s get down to the delicious business of preparing our cheesy baked chicken and peppers! This dish is all about layering flavors and letting the oven do the magic. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden finish.
- While the oven is warming up, grab a baking dish and drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil at the bottom. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Next, gently place the 4 chicken breasts into the baking dish. Make sure they’re evenly spaced so they cook nicely.
- Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it makes all the difference in flavor!
- Take those vibrant bell peppers you sliced earlier and layer them right on top of the chicken. They’ll cook down beautifully and add a sweet crunch!
- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the chicken and peppers. This is where the magic happens—bringing moisture and a rich flavor to the dish.
- Finally, sprinkle a generous cup of shredded cheddar cheese over everything. Yes, more cheese is always a good idea!
- Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets all those delicious juices settle in, making every bite extra tasty!
And there you have it! This cheesy baked chicken and peppers is ready to be enjoyed. Serve it up with some rice or a fresh salad, and prepare to be amazed at how simple yet satisfying this dish is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, there’s so much to love about this cheesy baked chicken and peppers! Here are just a few reasons why I think you’ll fall head over heels for this dish:
- Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s super easy to whip up, even on the busiest weeknights!
- Flavor explosion: The combination of juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, and rich marinara sauce topped with gooey cheese is simply irresistible.
- Healthier comfort food: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is a satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or cheese to suit your taste—get creative!
- Perfect for meal prep: This recipe makes great leftovers, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe is a favorite in my kitchen!
Tips for Success with Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Want to take your cheesy baked chicken and peppers to the next level? Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure you nail this dish every time!
- Use a meat thermometer: To make sure your chicken is perfectly cooked, check that it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. This avoids any guesswork!
- Let it rest: After baking, let the dish sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra juicy!
- Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a fun twist!
- Veggie overload: Don’t hold back on the veggies—add zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Serve it up: Pair this dish with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete your meal and soak up that delicious marinara sauce!
With these tips, you’re sure to make this cheesy baked chicken and peppers a hit at your dinner table!
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Alright, let’s talk numbers! I know we all care about what we’re putting into our bodies, so here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of this cheesy baked chicken and peppers. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 40g
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a satisfying option for dinner. Enjoy every cheesy bite without guilt!
Common Questions About Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Got some burning questions about cheesy baked chicken and peppers? I’ve got you covered! Here are a few common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you out:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and flavorful, so feel free to swap them in for a richer taste. Just adjust the cooking time, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
No worries! You can use any tomato-based sauce like pizza sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. Just make sure it’s packed with flavor to complement the chicken!
Can I prep this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the chicken; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! If you love a kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños along with the bell peppers for a spicy twist that’ll make your taste buds tingle!
Now that you’re equipped with all the answers, you’re ready to tackle this delicious cheesy baked chicken and peppers recipe with confidence!
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers
Now that your cheesy baked chicken and peppers are ready to shine, let’s talk about what to serve alongside this delightful dish! I love pairing it with a fluffy bed of rice—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. The rice soaks up all that delicious marinara sauce, making every bite even more satisfying!
If you’re in the mood for something fresh, a crisp side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken. You could also serve it with garlic bread to mop up those cheesy, saucy leftovers—yum!
And don’t forget about some roasted veggies! A medley of zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli roasted until tender makes for a colorful and nutritious side that complements the main dish beautifully. Whatever you choose, these sides will elevate your meal and make it truly memorable!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers from your cheesy baked chicken and peppers? No worries, they store beautifully! Just let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those cheesy bites all week long!
When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, using the microwave works too—just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out, and heat in short bursts, checking frequently. Trust me, this dish tastes just as good the second time around, so dig in and enjoy every cheesy morsel!
Print
Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers: 7 Comforting Servings!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy baked chicken and peppers is a delicious and satisfying dish. You will enjoy the combination of tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, drizzle olive oil and place the chicken breasts.
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Top the chicken with sliced bell peppers.
- Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and peppers.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to use different colored bell peppers for variety.
- You can add more cheese if desired.
- Serve with rice or a salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with peppers
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: cheesy baked chicken and peppers