Get ready to transform your ordinary weekend meal into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Cheesy Pepper Chicken is not just another recipe—it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy, melted cheese mixture, nestled alongside vibrant bell peppers, creating a dish so irresistible that your family and friends will be begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a potluck or simply craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to be your new go-to comfort food that combines simplicity with gourmet taste.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, create a deep pocket in each chicken breast by carefully slicing horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket generously with the cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
- Slice bell peppers into thin strips. Arrange the pepper slices around and between the stuffed chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Season the top of the chicken and peppers with additional salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until chicken is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Tips
- Chicken Prep: Always pat your chicken breasts dry before creating the pocket. This ensures better seasoning adherence and helps achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior.
- Cheese Mixture Hack: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or dried herbs like thyme to your cheese mixture.
- Even Cooking: Use toothpicks to secure the cheese-stuffed pocket, preventing the filling from leaking during baking.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Resting Time Matters: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Customization: Feel free to swap bell peppers with your favorite vegetables or experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 110mg
