Name: Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 small chicken breasts, cut large breasts in half like a book opens); 1 large egg; 1 cup bread crumbs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 1 zucchini (cubed); 1 onion (coarsely diced); 1 tomato (coarsely diced); 1 red or green bell pepper (coarsely diced); 1 block cream cheese (cut into pea-sized pieces); 1 cup sharp cheddar; 1 cup parmesan; 1 cup mozzarella; 5 basil leaves (cut chiffonade)

Are you looking for a simple, yet incredibly delicious meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies recipe! Packed with flavor, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese, this dish is not only satisfying but also a breeze to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe checks all the boxes for comfort food done right.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies dish brings together tender chicken breasts and a medley of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a layer of creamy cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. With its cheesy goodness and hearty veggies, this dish is a fun and healthy way to keep your meal planning fresh and exciting. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste buds!

Ingredient Breakdown

2 large chicken breasts or 4 small chicken breasts (cut large breasts in half like a book opens):
1 egg: Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken, adding moisture.
1 cup bread crumbs: For a crispy, golden coating that adds texture.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the dish.
1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a warm color and subtle smokiness.
4 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and helping the chicken stay moist.
1 zucchini: Cubed for a fresh crunch.
1 onion: Coarsely diced for sweetness and flavor.
1 tomato: Coarsely diced to add juiciness.
1 red or green bell pepper: Coarsely diced for a burst of color.
1 block of cream cheese: Cut into pea-sized pieces to melt beautifully.
1 cup sharp cheddar: For a bold, tangy flavor.
1 cup parmesan: Adds a nutty taste and helps with browning.
1 cup mozzarella: For that gooey, melty cheese experience.
5 basil leaves: Cut chiffonade for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Gear Checklist

Large mixing bowl: For combining the chicken and seasonings.
Cutting board: Essential for prepping your veggies.
Sharp knife: For easy chopping of chicken and vegetables.
Baking dish or sheet pan: To bake the chicken and veggies.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: To mix and serve.

Cook Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies Like This

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg. Add the salt, pepper, and paprika, mixing well. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, place the bread crumbs. Dredge the egg-coated chicken breasts in the bread crumbs until fully covered. This creates a flavorful crust that will keep the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the cubed zucchini and diced tomato, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes until they are tender.

Step 5: Assemble in a Baking Dish

In a baking dish, layer the sautéed vegetables evenly. Place the coated chicken breasts on top of the vegetable layer. Dot the chicken with pieces of cream cheese, then sprinkle the sharp cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese over everything.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chiffonade basil before serving. This adds a fragrant touch and a pop of color to your meal.

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Swap the Veggies: Use seasonal vegetables like butternut squash, broccoli, or green beans.
Add a Crunch: Top with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy finish.
Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
Herb Infusion: Mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile.

If You’re Curious

The beauty of this Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily swap out the cheeses based on what you have on hand or prefer. Goat cheese, for instance, can add a tangy twist. Additionally, this dish is a great way to use up leftover vegetables in your fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!

Storage Pro Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave until warm.

Next Up in Your Queue

See You at the Table

This Easy Cheesy Chicken and Veggies recipe is sure to become a staple in your home. With its delightful flavors and textures, it’s a dish that brings people together. Enjoy the process of cooking it, the aromas that fill your kitchen, and the smiles around the table when everyone takes their first bite. Happy cooking!