Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a flavorful, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This chicken pepper and onion recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, delicious dish packed with fresh flavors, and it's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't sacrifice taste. Get ready to enjoy a quick dinner idea that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. This is a great time to add a pinch of salt and pepper to help draw out the moisture from the vegetables.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Flavor Boost
Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the chicken.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth or water, bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve this delicious chicken pepper and onion dish hot, as a quick and easy dinner. It's perfect on its own, served over rice, quinoa, or with a side of your favorite vegetables. Homemade cooking doesn't get much simpler than this!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of peppers – poblanos, jalapeños, or even a mix of colors would work wonderfully.
- If you like a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the garlic.
- To make this a complete meal, serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping in the delicious sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Pepper and Onion: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Creamy Chicken Pepper and Onion: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end of cooking for a creamy, richer sauce.
- Chicken Pepper and Onion with Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms along with the onions and peppers.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy recipe is a testament to how delicious and healthy food recipes can be. It's a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying meal!