Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner recipe? Look no further! This Chicken Breast and Peppers recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, requires minimal ingredients, and is ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – simple, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will become a staple in your quick dinner ideas repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Start by slicing the bell pepper and onion. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped before you begin cooking will make the process much smoother. This is a key tip for efficient homemade cooking.
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Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
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Add the veggies: Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Simmer and finish: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth or water, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You can check the chicken’s doneness by using a meat thermometer; it should register at 165°F (74°C).
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Serve: Serve the chicken and peppers immediately. This dish is delicious on its own or served over rice, quinoa, or couscous.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of chicken or vegetables, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Get creative! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
Delicious Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Peppers: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the skillet during the simmering stage, along with a handful of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Spicy Chicken and Peppers: Increase the amount of 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 cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20 grams
This Chicken Breast and Peppers recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that are both healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner. Enjoy!