Chicken Fillet with Cheese and Vegetables

Introduction

This Chicken Fillet with Cheese and Vegetables is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Juicy chicken breasts are seasoned, topped with sautéed vegetables and melty cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s low-carb, colorful, and packed with nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into fillets or pounded thin)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Vegetables:

• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into thin half-moons
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned (it will finish cooking in the oven). Remove and set aside in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté garlic, onion, bell peppers, and zucchini for about 5–6 minutes until tender-crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble:
   Top each chicken fillet with a generous scoop of the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top and add Parmesan if using.
5. Bake:
   Bake in the oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Description

This dish is a beautiful balance of savory chicken, colorful sautéed veggies, and rich melted cheese. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the vegetables provide texture and freshness. The cheese adds a creamy, comforting finish that ties everything together.

Tips

• Pound chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Use a blend of cheeses for more depth—try mozzarella with provolone or fontina.
• Add a touch of Italian seasoning or thyme for extra aroma.
• Cover loosely with foil while baking to keep it moist, removing foil for the last few minutes to brown the cheese.

Variations

• Low-fat version: Use low-fat cheese and skip the Parmesan.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
• Add carbs: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
• Different veggies: Substitute with mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes based on what you have.

Correction

If the chicken is dry, reduce the bake time slightly or cover the dish with foil. If the vegetables release too much moisture, sauté a bit longer before adding to the chicken. If the cheese browns too quickly, lower the oven temperature or loosely tent with foil.

Enjoy

Serve hot, straight from the oven, with a simple green salad or garlic bread. It’s comforting, nutritious, and full of flavor—perfect for any occasion!