Cheesy Tex Mex Chicken Bake

Cheesy Tex Mex Chicken Bake

Ingredients:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced lengthwise) or 3–4 small ones

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1½ tsp chili powder

1 tsp ground cumin

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt & pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (or cheddar/jack mix)

1 tbsp olive oil

Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, jalapeños

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prep the chicken: Season the sliced chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Sear the chicken (optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken slices for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned. (This step adds flavor but can be skipped for a quicker version.)

4. Layer in a baking dish: Add chicken to a lightly greased 9x13" baking dish. Top with sliced bell peppers and chopped onion.

5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F).

7. Broil (optional): Remove foil and broil on high for 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

8. Serve: Top with your favorite Tex-Mex toppings and enjoy over rice, in tortillas, or with tortilla chips!