I make this dish and suddenly everyone in the house is in a total uproar!
Looking for a flavorful and satisfying dish to spice up your dinner routine? This Spicy Monterey Jack Chicken and Peppers Bake is the perfect solution. Tender chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of spices, surrounded by vibrant bell peppers, and topped with gooey Monterey Jack cheese, this dish is a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. With a hint of heat from chili powder and optional jalapeños, balanced by the freshness of lime juice and cilantro, it’s a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss. Plus, it’s easy to make and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some excitement to your dinner table!
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Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chili powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 large |
| Yellow bell pepper, sliced | 1 large |
| Monterey Jack cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional) | 1 tablespoon (for extra heat) |
| Lime juice | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gently grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear each side until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will lock in the juices!
- Remove the chicken and place it in the greased baking dish. Surround the chicken with the sliced peppers, and pour over any leftover oil from the skillet.
- Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken and peppers, and if you’re in the mood for extra heat, add the sliced jalapeño on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for around 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. When the cheese is golden and bubbly, you’re golden too!
- Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the bake and garnishing with chopped cilantro for that burst of freshness.
