Are you craving a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly delicious meal that's also quick to prepare? Look no further! This recipe for Chicken with Peppers and Onions is a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a fun gathering with friends. It's a classic combination of flavors that's both satisfying and surprisingly versatile. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners, yet delicious enough to impress seasoned cooks. Let's dive into this flavorful fiesta!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 and can easily be doubled or tripled depending on your needs.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 orange or yellow bell pepper (optional, for extra color and sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your vegetables: Slice the onions and bell peppers. Mince the garlic. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process much smoother.
Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Add the onions and peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Spice it Up:
- Return the chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and coat everything evenly.
Simmer to Perfection:
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the peppers are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
Serve this delicious chicken and vegetable dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. It's fantastic served with:
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice are both excellent choices.
- Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve it over quinoa.
- Tortillas: Use warm tortillas to create delicious chicken and veggie wraps or tacos.
- Salad: A simple green salad makes a refreshing side dish.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn.
- Change up the spices: Experiment with different spice blends to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding oregano, thyme, or a pinch of sugar for a sweeter taste.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Sheet Pan Dinner: For easy cleanup, roast everything on a sheet pan in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This healthy and delicious recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy your flavorful and easy meal! Remember to adjust seasonings to your preference. Happy cooking!