Description
This Baked Chicken and Peppers recipe is a hearty and flavorful dinner featuring tender boneless chicken breasts baked with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic and Italian seasonings. Finished with melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal that combines simplicity and deliciousness in one pan.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into thin cutlets)
- 1 red bell pepper (cut into strips)
- 1 green bell pepper (cut into strips)
- 1/2 sweet yellow onion (thinly sliced)
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 15 oz crushed tomatoes (1 can)
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
Cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Place the thinly sliced onions and bell pepper strips in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to create a flavorful bed for the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Mix the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer on top of the peppers and sprinkle a couple of pinches of the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken pieces.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, remaining seasoning mixture, pressed garlic, and balsamic vinegar. Pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetable layers, ensuring the chicken is fully covered.
- Bake the Dish: Preheat the oven to 400˚F (204˚C). Bake the uncovered dish for 35 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook and the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C), and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
- For best results, cut the chicken breast into thin cutlets to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Make sure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165˚F for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
