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### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Preheat and Prep**
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken and vegetables.
2. **Prepare the Chicken**: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and paprika. Be sure to rub the spices in to coat the chicken evenly.
#### **Step 2: Cook the Peppers and Onion**
1. **Sauté the Veggies**: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about **5-7 minutes**, until they soften and become slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
2. **Season**: Season the peppers and onions with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat.
#### **Step 3: Assemble the Dish**
1. **Layer the Chicken and Veggies**: In a baking dish, arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Top each piece of chicken with the sautéed peppers and onions, spreading them evenly over the chicken.
2. **Add the Cheese**: Sprinkle both the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken and vegetable mixture. This will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a delicious, cheesy topping.
3. **Drizzle with Olive Oil**: For a golden, crispy finish, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the chicken and cheese before baking.
#### **Step 4: Bake**
1. **Bake the Dish**: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbling and golden.
2. **Optional Browning**: If you prefer a crispier cheese crust, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
#### **Step 5: Garnish and Serve**
1. **Garnish**: Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
2. **Serve**: Serve the cheesy baked chicken and peppers on its own or alongside a simple side like rice, mashed potatoes, or a green salad.
### **Tips for the Best Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers:**
– **Customize the Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish for added flavor and texture.
– **Make It Spicy**: If you love a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the peppers and onions for a spicy kick.
– **Use Bone-In Chicken**: If you prefer bone-in chicken, simply adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature. Bone-in chicken may take a bit longer to cook.
– **Use Different Cheeses**: Mozzarella is classic, but you can experiment with other types of cheese like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for different flavors and textures.
– **Meal Prep Option**: This recipe can be easily doubled or made ahead for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheats beautifully.
### **Why You’ll Love Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers:**
– **Simple Ingredients**: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table.
– **One-Pan Wonder**: The chicken and veggies all cook together in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
– **Flavorful**: The blend of melted cheese, tender chicken, and sautéed peppers and onions offers a perfect balance of flavors, from savory and cheesy to sweet and caramelized.
– **Healthy and Filling**: The chicken provides lean protein, and the peppers add vitamins and fiber, making this a balanced and wholesome meal.
### **Conclusion:**
**Cheesy Baked Chicken and Peppers** is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. The tender chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and cheesy topping come together in a delicious harmony that will leave you craving more. With its customizable ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Try it today for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
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