Craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This Chicken with Bell Pepper recipe is your answer. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delightful balance of sweet bell peppers and savory chicken. It's one of those easy recipes that will quickly become a family favorite, and a go-to for healthy meals. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons 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
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your vegetables: Slice the bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped before you start cooking makes the process much smoother.
Cook the Chicken and Veggies:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
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Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
Season and Simmer:
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Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the dish with their aroma.
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Pour in the chicken broth or water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges. This dish is wonderful served with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken with Bell Peppers:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcook the chicken! Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of white wine or chicken stock towards the end of cooking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Change up the spices: Experiment with different spice combinations, such as chili powder, oregano, or thyme.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This quick and easy Chicken with Bell Pepper recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and healthy option that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Enjoy!