Discover the mouthwatering flavors of Portugal with our irresistible Portuguese Freezer Chicken Bake! This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken breasts with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. In just one hour, you can serve up a deliciously satisfying dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Portuguese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of bell peppers, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or cooking spray.
- If the chicken breasts are frozen, allow them to thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
- Chop the onion into medium-sized pieces and mince the garlic cloves finely. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips.
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the chopped onions and minced garlic as a base layer for the chicken.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the onion and garlic layer.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes evenly over the chicken, ensuring each breast is partially covered.
- Distribute the sliced bell peppers around and on top of the chicken breasts.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during cooking.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the top to slightly brown and vegetables to caramelize.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro, and accompanied by rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Thawing the Chicken: If using frozen chicken breasts, remember to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor. This also ensures even cooking.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Generously coat the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the dish's overall flavor profile.
- Layering: For optimal flavor, create a base layer of onions and garlic in your baking dish. This will infuse the chicken with aromatic goodness as it cooks.
- Moisture Retention: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first part of cooking to lock in moisture. Remove it during the last 10 minutes to achieve a beautiful golden-brown finish.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after baking. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your Portuguese Freezer Chicken Bake with a side of fluffy rice, crispy potatoes, or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to delight!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 288kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 48g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 180mg
