Recipe Information
Details
Information
Preparation time
15 minutes
Marinating time
20–30 minutes
Cooking time
30–35 minutes
Total time
1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
4
Course
Main course
Cuisine
American-inspired
Cooking method
Oven baking
Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
1. Chicken
4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 700–800 g)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp black pepper
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
2. Garlic Butter Sauce
3 tbsp unsalted butter
5 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
3. Vegetables
1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 medium orange bell pepper, sliced
½ medium onion, sliced (optional)
4. Cheese Topping
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (approximately 100–120 g)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (approximately 25 g)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Wash and pat the chicken dry with paper towels (if washing is your usual practice, clean and sanitize the surrounding surfaces).
If the chicken breasts are thick, gently pound them to an even thickness.
In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes.
Rub olive oil over the chicken.
Apply the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides.
Allow the chicken to marinate for 20–30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 2: Prepare the garlic butter sauce
Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for approximately 30–45 seconds.
Avoid browning or burning the garlic.
Add olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, black pepper, and fresh parsley.
Mix thoroughly and remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the bell peppers
Wash and dry all bell peppers.
Remove seeds and membranes.
Cut peppers into medium-sized strips.
Slice onion if using.
Toss the vegetables with 1 tsp olive oil and a small pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the chicken bake
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
Lightly grease a large oven-safe baking dish.
Arrange seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer.
Distribute red, yellow, and orange bell peppers around and between the chicken.
Pour the garlic butter sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
Spoon some sauce over each chicken breast to ensure maximum flavor.
Step 5: Add the cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the chicken breasts.
Add grated Parmesan on top.
Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the cheese.
Keep some cheese concentrated on the chicken for a thick, golden topping.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake uncovered for approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on chicken thickness.
Check the internal temperature using a food thermometer. The thickest part must reach 74°C (165°F).
If desired, broil for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese becomes golden and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and rest for 5 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken.
Spoon the garlic butter sauce and roasted peppers over each portion.
Serve hot with your favorite side dish.
Nutritional Information
Estimated values per serving, based on 4 servings and the listed ingredients. Actual values vary by chicken size and cheese brand.
Nutrient
Per serving
Calories
480–540 kcal
Protein
48–55 g
Total fat
27–32 g
Saturated fat
12–15 g
Carbohydrates
8–11 g
Dietary fiber
1.5–2.5 g
Total sugar
3–5 g
Cholesterol
150–180 mg
Sodium
650–850 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work very well. They are naturally juicier and may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Q2. Can I prepare this recipe without an oven?
Yes. Cook the seasoned chicken in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until it reaches 74°C internally. Add the peppers, garlic butter sauce, and cheese. Cover until the cheese melts.
Q3. Which cheese is best for this recipe?
Mozzarella provides a stretchy, creamy texture, while Parmesan adds a rich, savory flavor. You can also use cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Q4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Season the chicken and prepare the vegetables and sauce separately. Store covered in the refrigerator and assemble shortly before baking. Keep raw chicken refrigerated at 4°C or below.
Q5. How do I keep chicken from becoming dry?
Choose chicken breasts of similar thickness.
Avoid overcooking.
Use the garlic butter sauce generously.
Check the internal temperature with a thermometer.
Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes.
Q6. Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Yes. Thaw and drain them well before adding them to the baking dish to avoid excess moisture.
Q7. Can I make it spicy?
Yes. Increase chili flakes or add a little cayenne pepper according to your preference.
Q8. How should leftovers be stored?
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours. Consume within 3–4 days. Reheat until the center reaches 74°C.
Q9. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Once cooked and cooled, store in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 2–3 months for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q10. What can I serve with cheesy garlic chicken?
Garlic butter rice
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Roasted potatoes
Fresh green salad
Garlic bread
Buttered pasta