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If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal that only takes a little time, this chicken and peppers recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy nights, it combines healthy ingredients with simple steps to create a delicious dish everyone loves. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, you can spend more time enjoying dinner and less time washing dishes!
Why This Chicken and Peppers Recipe is Perfect for Busy Nights
Finding time to cook can be tough when you’re juggling a busy schedule. This chicken and bell pepper skillet is a fantastic solution. It’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Quick and Easy Preparation
- Fast Cooking Time: This dish can be ready in about 25 minutes.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means less mess.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients at home already.
Minimal Cleanup Required
- Less Dishwashing: With only one pan to clean, you can spend more time relaxing.
- Easy to Store: Leftovers can be kept in the same skillet or transferred to a container.
- Quick Wipe Down: After cooking, a simple pan wash is all you need.
Delicious and Nutritious
- Flavorful Dish: The combination of chicken and peppers creates a delightful taste.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and vitamins, this meal is good for you.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
This recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious chicken dish that is easy and quick to make, pleasing everyone in the family!
Ingredients You Need for the Chicken and Peppers Recipe
You’ll need a few key ingredients to make a delicious Chicken and Peppers dish. Here’s what you should gather:
Choosing the Right Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer.
- Make sure the chicken is fresh for the best flavour.
Variety of Peppers to Use
- Use a mix of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers for a colourful and tasty dish.
- Feel free to add green bell peppers if you like a bit of extra crunch.
Essential Seasonings and Sauces
- Olive oil is necessary for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- You’ll need garlic for flavour, along with dried basil. If you have fresh basil, use double the amount.
- Balsamic vinegar adds a nice tang. You can swap it for Dijon mustard or white wine vinegar.
Here’s a quick summary of the ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken | 4 breasts |
| Olive oil | 1/4 cup (divided) |
| Bell peppers | 3 (mixed colors) |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Dried basil | 1 tablespoon |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1/4 cup (divided) |
Tip: Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of your dish!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Peppers
Preparing the Chicken
- Start by placing the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and your favourite fajita seasoning. Use tongs to mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated.
Cooking the Peppers and Onions
- Next, take a large baking sheet and spread out sliced peppers and onions. Drizzle olive oil, season with kosher salt, and sprinkle with fajita seasoning. Toss them together to combine.
Combining Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
- Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the baking sheet, nestling them among the peppers and onions. Bake everything at 400°F for about 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
- For a crispy finish, broil the dish for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Once done, slice the chicken into thin strips and serve it over rice or tortillas. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions for Chicken and Peppers
Pairing with Classic Sides
When serving your Chicken and Peppers, consider these classic sides:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!
- Pasta: A great way to enjoy the flavours together.
- Mashed Potatoes: Extra creamy and comforting.
Low-Carb Options
If you’re looking for low-carb sides, try these:
- Oven Roasted Green Beans: A healthy and crunchy choice.
- Sautéed Spinach: Light and nutritious.
- Baked Asparagus: A tasty green addition.
Creative Serving Ideas
You can also get creative with your leftovers:
- Chicken and Peppers Pizza: Spread olive oil on a crust, add chopped leftovers, top with cheese, and bake.
- Chicken and Peppers Subs: Fill sub rolls with chopped leftovers and cheese, then bake until golden.
- Chicken and Peppers Pasta Casserole: Mix with cooked pasta, add cheese, and bake for a hearty meal.
Enjoying this dish with a variety of sides can make your meal feel special and satisfying!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken and Peppers
Time-Saving Shortcuts
To make your cooking experience even more accessible, consider these helpful tips:
- Use precut veggies: Save time by buying precut peppers and onions from the store or prepping them beforehand.
- Opt for store-bought marinara: Using store-bought sauce can speed things up if you’re short on time. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly.
- Make it a freezer meal: Prepare the dish in advance and freeze it. Then, when you’re ready to eat, you can just pop it in the oven.
Dietary Modifications
This recipe is flexible and can cater to various dietary needs:
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free; check any store-bought items.
- Low-carb: With about 9g net carbs per serving, it fits nicely into low-carb diets.
- Dairy-free: Omit the cheese to make it dairy-free.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh and tasty:
- Store properly: Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently: Warm them in a skillet over low heat or the microwave, checking frequently.
- Freeze for later: For extended storage, freeze leftovers in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Let them thaw overnight before reheating.
Remember: Cooking chicken and peppers together is perfectly fine, just ensure the chicken pieces are not too thick to avoid uneven cooking.
These tips will help you create a delicious meal with minimal fuss, making your busy nights a little easier!
Exploring Variations of the Chicken and Peppers Recipe
When you want to change things up, there are many fun ways to enjoy chicken and peppers! Here are some tasty ideas to try:
Adding Different Vegetables
- Zucchini: Slice and add for extra texture.
- Mushrooms: They add a nice earthy flavour.
- Broccoli: A great way to sneak in some greens!
Experimenting with Spices
- Cumin: Gives a warm, earthy taste.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky flavour.
- Chilli Powder: For a spicy kick!
Trying Alternative Cooking Methods
- Grilling: Perfect for summer nights!
- Slow Cooking: Great for a hands-off meal.
- Stir-frying: Quick and keeps the veggies crisp.
You can also make a chicken and bell pepper stir fry. This dish makes an excellent sandwich filling or a delicious homemade version of your favourite takeout with rice!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Peppers
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your leftovers fresh, follow these steps:
- Store: Once cooled, place leftover chicken, peppers, and onions in an airtight glass container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Warm up leftovers in a skillet over low heat or microwave, heating for 1 minute until hot.
- Freeze: Let leftovers cool completely, then put them in a ziplock freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can You Cook Raw Chicken and Peppers at the Same Time?
Yes, you can cook raw chicken and peppers together! Ensure the chicken pieces are thick enough, as thicker pieces will take longer to cook, which might overcook the peppers.
Do You Cook Onions and Peppers First or Meat?
When making chicken with peppers and onions, you can cook everything at once if you use a sheet pan. However, if you use a skillet, it’s better to cook in batches, starting with the peppers and onions first.
Can I Substitute Boneless Chicken Thighs for Bone-In Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breast?
You can substitute boneless chicken thighs with bone-in thighs or chicken breasts, but remember that the cooking time will change. Bone-in pieces take longer to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly.
Cooking chicken and peppers together is a great way to save time and enjoy a delicious meal!
Final Thoughts on Chicken and Peppers
In conclusion, this Chicken and Peppers recipe is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It checks all the boxes: quick to prepare, easy to make, and delicious. Plus, with just one pan to clean, you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time on cleanup. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad, this dish will surely please everyone. Remember that leftovers can be transformed into new meals, making them even more versatile. Give it a try, and you might find it becoming a regular on your dinner menu!
FAQ
How should I store leftovers from this recipe?
Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to four months.
What’s the best way to reheat chicken and peppers?
To reheat, put the chicken and peppers in a large pan. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to help it warm up evenly.
Can I mix in other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, broccoli, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavour and nutrition.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick dinner option.
What can I serve with chicken and peppers?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. It can also be enjoyed with garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! This chicken and peppers recipe is packed with nutrients and is low in calories, making it a healthy dinner choice.