Chicken Bell Pepper Recipe: A Flavorful and Easy Dish
This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken with bell peppers, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal. It's packed with flavor, easy to customize, and adaptable to various dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- 2 large bell peppers: Choose your favorite colors! Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers offer a sweeter taste, while green peppers provide a slightly more bitter bite. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 1 large onion: Diced. White or yellow onions work well.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic is best, but you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds juiciness and acidity.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Or your preferred cooking oil.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky flavor.
- 1/2 tsp cumin: For an earthy warmth.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For a touch of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season generously.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional): For garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Bell Peppers and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced bell peppers and the can of diced tomatoes (undrained).
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bell peppers are tender. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth.
- Season and Serve: Stir in the cayenne pepper (if using) and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This chicken bell pepper dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it as is, or try these suggestions:
- Over rice: A classic and comforting combination.
- With tortillas: Perfect for tacos or burrito bowls.
- As a filling for baked potatoes: A hearty and satisfying meal.
- With a side salad: A light and refreshing complement.
Tips and Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Use different spices: Experiment with different spice blends to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end for a creamier texture.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is great for meal prepping. Prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
This recipe is designed to be adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own perfect chicken bell pepper dish! Enjoy!
