Bell Pepper and Lemon Chicken Bake
Bell Pepper and Lemon Chicken Bake is a bright and zesty dish that combines juicy chicken thighs or breasts with colorful bell peppers and a refreshing lemon flavor. This one-pan meal is baked to perfection, allowing the chicken to soak up the tangy marinade while the vegetables roast to tender, flavorful goodness. It’s a healthy and easy-to-prepare recipe, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
This dish marries juicy chicken with sweet bell peppers and zesty lemon, baked to perfection. A wholesome, colorful meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with bright flavors.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, sliced (plus juice from half a lemon)
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. preheat the oven:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. season the chicken:
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
3. prepare the vegetables:
In the baking dish, spread the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
4. assemble the dish:
Nestle the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Scatter lemon slices around and pour chicken broth over the vegetables.
5. bake:
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the chicken skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. serve:
Squeeze the reserved lemon juice over the baked chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with rice, pasta, or roasted potatoes.
Variations: Add other vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for variety and nutrition.
Make Ahead: This dish can be marinated in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready to serve.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is packed with lean protein from the chicken and vitamins from the colorful bell peppers, making it a nutritious option. The lemon adds a refreshing zing while providing vitamin C.
The Bell Pepper and Lemon Chicken Bake is not only flavorful and visually appealing but also a simple way to create a wholesome meal with minimal cleanup. Enjoy!