Welcome to another delicious recipe that will bring both comfort and flavor to your kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers dish that combines the heartiness of chicken, the rich flavors of Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone, and the fresh, vibrant touch of bell peppers. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy meals or just looking for an easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan recipe, this one is a must-try!
Introduction
Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers is a delightful twist on the traditional Chicken Parmesan dish, adding a colorful layer of bell peppers and melting three types of cheese—Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone. This dish, originating from the Italian-American culinary tradition, is known for its crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey cheese topping. The addition of bell peppers brings a fresh, slightly sweet contrast, elevating the flavor profile and making it a perfect comfort food that’s both filling and visually appealing.
Chicken Parmesan recipes are beloved for their simplicity and versatility, and this version is no different. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, the blend of three cheeses takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Ingredients for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-free versions of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan can be used for those with lactose intolerance.
How to Make Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers – Step by Step
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious Chicken Parmesan recipe:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, making sure to coat them evenly. Then, dip them into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
Step 3: Add Marinara and Bell Peppers
Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the fried chicken breasts. Scatter the thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers on top of the marinara sauce.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and a little extra Parmesan. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over the bell peppers.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a bright, herby touch, and serve the Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers hot!
Helpful Tips for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers
- For extra crispiness, consider double-breading the chicken by repeating the flour and breadcrumb steps.
- If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Using fresh mozzarella can give the dish an even creamier texture, but make sure to drain it well before adding.
Cooking Tips for the Best Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan
- When frying the chicken, make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) to prevent the breading from becoming soggy.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is fully cooked.
- If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it by placing it on a greased baking sheet at 400°F for about 20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers
This Chicken Parmesan recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread: A crunchy, buttery side that complements the dish.
- Caesar salad: A fresh, light side dish to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Red wine: A medium-bodied wine like Chianti or Merlot pairs perfectly with the flavors of the dish.
Nutritional Information for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan
This dish provides a well-balanced meal, packed with protein from the chicken and plenty of calcium from the cheese.
- Calories: 550
- Fats: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, and calcium.
Storage and Leftovers for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but it may lose some of its texture.
For freezing, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan
- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes! Feel free to substitute or add other cheeses like Gouda, fontina, or cheddar for a unique flavor twist.
- How do I keep the chicken crispy after baking? Avoid adding too much sauce over the chicken, and bake uncovered to maintain the crisp texture.
- Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving for maximum freshness.
- Can I make this dish without frying the chicken? Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20 minutes if you prefer a healthier, less greasy version.
2 Related Recipes for Chicken Parmesan Lovers
Check out these delicious recipes from Optimal Recipes for more comfort food inspiration:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole
: A hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
- Sausage Balls with Red Lobster Mix
: An easy, tasty appetizer perfect for any occasion.
Conclusion
Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers is a comforting, cheesy, and colorful dish that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Whether you’re a fan of classic Chicken Parmesan or looking for a new spin on the traditional recipe, this dish will not disappoint. Try it out, and let us know how it turned out! Feel free to share any personal twists or variations you made to the recipe.
Enjoy your meal!
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Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers Recipe
Description
Welcome to another delicious recipe that will bring both comfort and flavor to your kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers dish that combines the heartiness of chicken, the rich flavors of Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone, and the fresh, vibrant touch of bell peppers. Whether you’re a fan of cheesy meals or just looking for an easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan recipe, this one is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-free versions of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan can be used for those with lactose intolerance.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, making sure to coat them evenly. Then, dip them into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and finally coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken breasts until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
Step 3: Add Marinara and Bell Peppers
Spoon the marinara sauce evenly over the fried chicken breasts. Scatter the thinly sliced red and yellow bell peppers on top of the marinara sauce.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and a little extra Parmesan. Sprinkle this cheese mixture evenly over the bell peppers.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a bright, herby touch, and serve the Three-Cheese Chicken Parmesan with Bell Peppers hot!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For extra crispiness, consider double-breading the chicken by repeating the flour and breadcrumb steps.
- If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Using fresh mozzarella can give the dish an even creamier texture, but make sure to drain it well before adding.
