Baked Chicken with Bell Peppers, Feta, and Tomato Sauce

Baked chicken with bell peppers, feta cheese, and tomato sauce is a delicious, hearty dish that combines tender chicken breasts with savory, Mediterranean-inspired flavors. The dish features juicy bell peppers, sweet onions, and tangy feta cheese, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce spiced with paprika, coriander, and basil. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. This one-pan meal is not only delicious but also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and flavorful option for the whole family.

Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The combination of feta cheese and bell peppers gives the dish a unique, creamy texture with bursts of sweetness and tanginess, while the garlic and spices add depth and warmth to the dish.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts: 3, boneless and skinless
  • Bell peppers: 2 (any color), sliced
  • Onion: 1 medium, chopped
  • Garlic cloves: 3-4 small, minced
  • Feta cheese: 7 ounces (200 g), crumbled
  • Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (or any cooking oil of your choice)
  • Chicken broth or water: 150 ml (2/3 cup)
  • Salt: To taste
  • Black pepper: To taste
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon
  • Coriander: 1/2 teaspoon, ground
  • Dried basil: 1 teaspoon

Instructions (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Prep the chicken breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the vegetables and sauce.
  2. Slice the bell peppers and onions: Slice 2 bell peppers into thin strips and chop 1 medium onion. Set aside.
  3. Mince the garlic: Peel and finely mince 3-4 small garlic cloves. This will be added to the sauce for a burst of flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
  1. Heat the olive oil: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  3. Add the bell peppers: Toss the sliced bell peppers into the skillet and sauté for another 5-7 minutes, or until the peppers have softened slightly but still retain some crunch.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
  1. Add the tomato paste: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste with the vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly, which enhances its flavor.
  2. Add the chicken broth: Pour in 150 ml (2/3 cup) of chicken broth or water. Stir well to combine with the tomato paste, ensuring there are no lumps.
  3. Season the sauce: Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander, and additional salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Feta
  1. Nestle the chicken breasts: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture.
  2. Crumble the feta cheese: Sprinkle the 7 ounces (200 g) of crumbled feta cheese over the top of the chicken and vegetables. The feta will melt slightly in the oven, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Step 5: Bake the Dish
  1. Preheat the oven: While preparing the ingredients, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake the chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken breasts are fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). The feta cheese should be melted and slightly golden, while the chicken remains juicy and tender.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Garnish and serve: Once the dish is out of the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, additional black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
  2. Serve hot: Plate each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of the bell peppers, onions, and sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Cooking Tips

  • Marinate the chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with even more depth and tenderness.
  • Feta cheese substitutions: If you’re not a fan of feta or can’t find it, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even a mild cheese like mozzarella for a creamier texture.
  • Customize the vegetables: While bell peppers and onions are the stars of this dish, feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cherry tomatoes to bulk up the dish and enhance the nutritional value.
  • Add heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This will complement the smoky paprika and feta cheese perfectly.

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken, vegetables, and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or stovetop before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)

  • Calories: 360 kcal
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Calcium: 25% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    • Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They offer a richer flavor and stay moist during baking. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven depending on their size.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and vegetables in advance, then simply assemble the dish and bake when ready. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or busy weeknight dinners.
  3. What can I serve with this dish?
    • This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, couscous, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter option.
  4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
    • Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato paste. If using fresh, dice 1-2 large tomatoes and cook them down with the garlic and onions before adding the broth.
  5. How can I ensure my chicken stays moist?
    • To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), which ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy. Resting the chicken for a few minutes after baking also helps retain moisture.

Conclusion

Baked chicken with bell peppers, feta cheese, and tomato sauce is a flavorful, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for a dinner party. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy feta, and rich tomato sauce creates a Mediterranean-inspired dish that bursts with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal, and enjoy the satisfying blend of savory, cheesy, and herby goodness!