Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This vibrant Chicken and Red Pepper recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, flavorful dish packed with protein and vitamins, making it a fantastic choice for healthy meal prepping or a quick and satisfying dinner. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 3: Add the Peppers and Simmer
Add the sliced red bell peppers to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish the Chicken and Red Pepper dish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges. This simple yet delicious meal pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken, cook it in batches to ensure it browns properly.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it entirely.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Peppers: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with your favorite herbs like oregano or thyme.
- Spicy Chicken and Peppers: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Chicken and Peppers: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamy finish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 10-15g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Chicken and Red Pepper recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It's a perfect healthy meal option that’s both quick to prepare and satisfying to eat. Enjoy this delicious and versatile dish!