Spicy Monterey Jack Chicken and Peppers Bake

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share a delightful and zesty recipe that’s perfect for a hearty dinner: Spicy Monterey Jack Chicken and Peppers Bake. This dish is not only packed with flavors but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gently grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure each breast is well-coated for maximum flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear each side until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
4. Prepare for Baking: Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and place it in the greased baking dish. Surround the chicken with the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Pour any leftover oil from the skillet over the chicken and peppers for added flavor.
5. Add the Cheese and Heat: Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken and peppers. If you enjoy extra heat, add the sliced jalapeño on top.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. The cheese should be golden and bubbly.
7. Finish and Serve: Once the bake is done, squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4

This Spicy Monterey Jack Chicken and Peppers Bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and fresh flavors. Enjoy this dish on its own or serve it with a side of rice or a fresh salad. Happy cooking!