Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Chicken Breast with Green Pepper recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy and satisfying dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, yet satisfying enough for experienced cooks. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sliced green pepper; cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender-crisp.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked properly.
Step 4: Simmer and Serve
Pour the chicken broth (or water) into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become extra juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two chicken breasts, consider cooking them in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Add other vegetables: This recipe is easily adaptable. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a more complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Creamy Chicken and Peppers: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche during the last few minutes of simmering for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Herb Chicken and Peppers: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon to the skillet during the simmering stage for a bright, citrusy flavor. Fresh thyme or rosemary would also complement this variation well.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: Approximately 35-40 grams Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10 grams
This quick and easy Chicken Breast Green Pepper recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meal ideas. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish any night of the week! It’s a testament to how simple homemade cooking can be, delivering delicious results without demanding hours in the kitchen. This recipe is definitely one to keep coming back to for quick, healthy and flavorful meals.