Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner? Look no further! This recipe for chicken and peppers is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. It’s packed with flavor, vibrant colors, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win for busy cooks. This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or homemade cooking inspiration. It’s one of those delicious dishes that's both satisfying and simple to make. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the cubed chicken with paprika, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. This ensures the chicken is well-seasoned throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Add the Peppers and Simmer
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken and onions. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the chicken and peppers are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges. This simple garnish adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the spices 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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve this dish over rice, quinoa, or couscous for a more substantial meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Peppers: Increase the amount of chili powder and cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
- Creamy Chicken and Peppers: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
- Mediterranean Chicken and Peppers: Add some crumbled feta cheese and chopped Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This chicken and peppers recipe is a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Enjoy!