Discover the Spice-Packed Chicken and Pepper Delight casserole, featuring chicken, vibrant peppers, zesty spices, and creamy sauce for a meal to truly savor.
Spice-Packed Chicken and Pepper Delight: A Casserole to Savor
Welcome to my culinary corner where today we’re celebrating vibrant flavors with our Spice-Packed Chicken and Pepper Delight. This casserole combines juicy chicken pieces with a medley of colorful peppers, enveloped in spices that will whisk you away to a world of taste. Perfect for a family dinner or an impressive potluck dish, this recipe is sure to be a staple in your home. Gather your ingredients and let’s create something truly delightful.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready, slicing the peppers and onions, and mincing the garlic to streamline the cooking process. - Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and dried oregano. - Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage as it will finish in the oven. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions begin to soften. Add the sliced bell peppers and continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. - Combine with Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour the drained diced tomatoes into the skillet, followed by the chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. - Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the sautéed vegetables and liquid mixture into a large casserole dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the vegetable mixture, nestling them slightly into the peppers.
- Bake:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). - Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. If desired, serve over a bed of cooked rice to absorb the delicious juices.
Conclusion:
Voila! Your Spice-Packed Chicken and Pepper Delight is ready to be savored. This hearty casserole does more than satisfy hunger; it brings warmth and excitement to your table. The fusion of spices with succulent chicken and sweet bell peppers creates a dish that’s both comforting and full of zest. Whether you’re catering to a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this casserole promises to deliver flavors that linger and memories that last. Enjoy every bite!
Discover the Spice-Packed Chicken and Pepper Delight casserole, featuring chicken, vibrant peppers, zesty spices, and creamy sauce for a meal to truly savor.