Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This Bell Peppers and Chicken recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, impressing family and friends alike. It's bursting with fresh flavors, requires minimal cleanup, and is easily adaptable to your taste preferences. This recipe is a celebration of simple, homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory. It's one of those easy recipes that's both satisfying and healthy, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 large bell peppers (any color or a mix!), seeded and cut into large chunks
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Spice things up: In the same skillet, add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, bell peppers, and corn (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are tender. Stir occasionally.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot. This dish is fantastic on its own, or you can serve it over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a more complete meal.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lime juice, and your favorite spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your liking. For a milder dish, use less; for a spicier kick, add more!
Delicious Variations:
- Add some cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese over the dish during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with 1 (15 oz) can of chickpeas or black beans, drained and rinsed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy and balanced meal. The nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is around 300-350 calories, with a good source of protein and fiber.
This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are surprisingly easy to make. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this flavorful bell peppers and chicken recipe – it's sure to become a family favorite!