As the sun sets, we all crave a tasty, healthy meal. But who has time for long prep and hard cooking on busy weeknights? That’s where the easy skillet chicken and peppers recipe comes in. It’s your new favorite for quick dinners.
This dish is full of flavor, with crispy chicken and bright bell peppers cooked in one pan. It’s also low-carb, paleo, and Whole30-friendly. And it’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those evenings when you need a good meal fast.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Low-carb, paleo, and Whole30-friendly recipe
- Ready in less than 30 minutes for busy weeknights
- Features crispy chicken thighs and colorful bell peppers
- Versatile flavor combinations and side dish pairings
- Ideal for meal prep with easy storage and reheating
Introduction to Chicken and Peppers Dishes
Chicken and bell peppers make a tasty and healthy mix. This easy skillet recipe is quick to make and fits many diets. Chicken is lean and easy to cook, while bell peppers add color, sweetness, and vitamins.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This recipe is loved for its simple steps and flexibility. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, great for busy nights or when you want a good meal. Chicken and bell peppers together make a dish that tastes great and looks good, pleasing everyone.
Benefits of Cooking with Chicken
- Chicken is a lean protein full of nutrients and can be used in many dishes.
- It’s versatile, allowing for endless recipe ideas.
- Chicken cooks fast, making it perfect for quick meals.
Why Add Bell Peppers?
Bell peppers add color, sweetness, and important vitamins and minerals to the dish. They pair well with chicken, creating a mix of flavors and textures. Adding bell peppers makes the dish more appealing and nutritious.
“This chicken and bell pepper skillet is a go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. The combination of lean protein and vibrant veggies makes it a perfect choice for meal prep or a satisfying dinner.”
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this tasty one-pan family-friendly recipe, you need the right ingredients. Let’s look at what you’ll need to make this one-pan meal come to life.
Fresh Chicken: Cuts to Choose
You can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The type of chicken you choose affects cooking time and taste. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are juicier and tastier, while boneless, skinless breasts are leaner.
Selecting the Right Peppers
Bell peppers are the main attraction in this family-friendly recipe. Choose red and orange peppers for their sweetness and color. Mixing these peppers makes the dish look and taste great.
Additional Seasonings and Spices
To make your chicken and peppers taste better, use various seasonings. Paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes are good choices. You can adjust these to your liking, making the dish your own.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2-3 pounds |
| Bell peppers (red and orange) | 3-4 medium |
| Onion | 1 medium |
| Garlic | 3-4 cloves |
| Olive oil | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red chili flakes (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
“The key to a delicious one-pan meal is finding the right balance of flavors and textures. This recipe for Chicken and Peppers does just that, making it a wonderful family-friendly choice for dinner.”
Preparing Your Ingredients
Getting your ingredients ready is key for a smooth meal planning process, perfect for weeknight dinners. Let’s cover how to prepare the bell peppers and chicken for your Easy Skillet Chicken and Peppers recipe.
How to Properly Chop Bell Peppers
Begin by removing the stem from the bell pepper. Cut it in half lengthwise, then remove the seeds and white membranes inside. After cleaning, slice the pepper into thin, even strips. This ensures the peppers cook evenly with the chicken.
Cutting Chicken for Skillet Cooking
For this recipe, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. If using breasts, cut them into 1-inch cubes or strips for quicker cooking. If using thighs, leave them whole. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning to promote better browning.
Cut the onion into similar-sized pieces as the bell peppers for even cooking. With your ingredients prepped, you’re ready to cook your delicious Easy Skillet Chicken and Peppers!
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs | 1 lb |
| Yellow onion, chopped | 1 cup |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Sherry | 1/2 cup |
| Chicken stock | 1/2 cup |
| Red wine vinegar or lemon juice | 1-2 tbsp |
| Heavy cream (optional) | 1/4 cup |
Cooking Method
Get ready to make a tasty skillet chicken and peppers dish quickly! The secret to great chicken and peppers is the cooking method. Follow these easy steps for a meal that will satisfy your easy dinner ideas cravings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil once it’s hot.
- Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper and a pinch of salt. Cook the chicken in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned. Then, set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re tender-crisp.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it smells great.
- Put the seared chicken back in the skillet with any juices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches 165°F.
- If you want crispy chicken skin, put the skillet in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet to let the chicken brown properly, not steam.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This makes the meat moist and flavorful.
With these simple skillet recipes, you’ll have a delicious easy dinner ideas ready fast. Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken and peppers!
Flavor Variations to Try
Make your healthy meal prep and family-friendly recipes more exciting with new flavors for Skillet Chicken and Peppers. Try fresh herbs, different peppers, and extra veggies to make it a hit with everyone.
Adding Herbs for Extra Flavor
Give your Skillet Chicken and Peppers a fresh twist with herbs. Add chopped basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. You can also try thyme, rosemary, or cilantro for something new.
Experimenting with Different Pepper Types
Change up the dish by using different peppers. Try spicy poblano or jalapeños for heat. Or, use milder peppers like Anaheim or cubanelle for a unique taste.
Incorporating Other Vegetables
Add more veggies to boost the dish’s nutrition and taste. Sauté sliced mushrooms, diced zucchini, or fresh spinach. This makes the meal more complete and fun to eat.
Exploring these flavor changes keeps your meals fresh and tasty. Don’t hesitate to add your own twist to this classic dish.
Pairing Suggestions
This versatile chicken and pepper dish goes well with many sides and drinks. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Try these tasty options to make your meal better.
Best Sides to Serve with Chicken and Peppers
- White rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Fluffy quinoa or couscous for a healthier grain option
- Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
- Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or zucchini
- A fresh, crisp side salad
- Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping in the flavorful sauce
Ideal Beverage Pairings
Drinks can enhance the taste of this chicken and pepper dish. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir works well. For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, unsweetened iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a great choice.
| Beverage | Pairing Notes |
|---|---|
| Sauvignon Blanc | The bright acidity and citrus notes complement the peppers and chicken. |
| Pinot Noir | The delicate red fruit flavors and medium body pair nicely with the dish. |
| Unsweetened Iced Tea | Refreshing and cleansing, it won’t overpower the meal. |
| Sparkling Water with Lemon | A light and bubbly option that can help cut through the richness. |
By trying these meal planning and weeknight dinners pairings, you can make your Easy Skillet Chicken and Peppers even more delicious.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Meal planning and healthy meal prep often result in tasty leftovers. Our Easy Skillet Chicken and Peppers Recipe is a great example. Let’s look at the best ways to store and reheat these leftovers.
Proper Storage Techniques
Keep leftovers fresh by storing them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Tips for Best Flavor
- For crispy chicken skin, reheat in the oven or air fryer. This method helps restore the texture.
- Use the microwave or stovetop to reheat peppers and onions gently. This keeps them tender.
- Thaw frozen leftovers in the fridge overnight before reheating. This ensures even heating.
- Add broth or water when reheating to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your Easy Skillet Chicken and Peppers Recipe for days. It’s a great way to make meal planning and healthy meal prep more convenient and versatile.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Cooking with skillet recipes can sometimes present a few challenges, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with some easy troubleshooting tips. Whether your chicken isn’t cooked through or your peppers are a bit overcooked, there are simple solutions to get your dinner back on track.
What to Do If Chicken Isn’t Cooked Through
If your chicken isn’t quite reaching the recommended internal temperature of 165°F, don’t panic. Just keep cooking the chicken on low heat, covered, until it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached the safe temperature before serving.
Fixing Overcooked Peppers
Overcooked peppers can sometimes become soft and lose their vibrant flavor. If this happens, quickly remove the peppers from the heat and add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. This will help brighten the flavor and restore some crispness to the peppers.
To prevent issues like these, be mindful of not overcrowding your skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking. Keeping a close eye on your vegetables and using a reliable meat thermometer will also go a long way in ensuring your skillet recipes turn out perfectly every time.
“Troubleshooting common issues in the kitchen can be a game-changer for home cooks. With a few simple techniques, you can elevate your cooking tips and skillet recipes to new heights.”
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Why This Recipe Should Be in Your Rotation
This easy skillet chicken and peppers recipe is a must-have for dinner. It’s quick, nutritious, and perfect for busy weeknights. The dish combines tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and bold flavors, making it a family favorite.
The simple preparation and one-pan cooking make it great for hectic schedules. It requires minimal cleanup, making it a convenient choice.
Encouragement to Experiment with Your Own Twist
Don’t be afraid to add your own twist to this recipe. The basic formula is a solid foundation for experimenting. You can try different spices, herbs, or vegetables to make it uniquely yours.
Whether you like a bit of heat, sweetness, or savory flavors, the options are endless. Mastering this dish means you have a go-to meal that can be tailored to your family’s tastes and dietary needs.
So, why not add this recipe to your weekly meal rotation? It’s quick, has simple ingredients, and offers endless flavor variations. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal. Get creative and make this dish your own – your taste buds and family will thank you!