Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: A Flavorful One-Pan Delight

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that requires minimal cleanup, Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is the perfect recipe for you. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the rich, creamy roasted red pepper sauce that envelops the chicken, making every bite burst with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a special meal for friends, this skillet dish is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll take you step by step through making this delightful recipe, starting with the essential ingredients and the best way to prepare the chicken. Along the way, we’ll provide useful tips to customize the sauce to your liking, making sure it’s just the right balance of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky. So, let’s dive into how you can bring this easy, one-pan meal to your table in no time!

Overview of the Dish

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a smooth and creamy sauce made from roasted red peppers. It’s perfect for anyone craving a savory dish with a little bit of warmth and richness, without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. This meal is made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

The key to this dish’s incredible flavor lies in the roasted red peppers, which bring a subtle sweetness and smokiness to the sauce. Coupled with the creaminess of the sauce, it’s an irresistible combination that pairs beautifully with tender chicken breasts or thighs. You can serve this dish with a variety of sides, like rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is so special because of its ease and versatility. The recipe allows you to prepare a delicious and filling meal in under 30 minutes, using everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The roasted red pepper sauce adds a depth of flavor that takes the dish from simple to extraordinary.

Not only does this dish pack a punch in terms of flavor, but it is also customizable. You can adjust the heat level, add more vegetables, or even swap out the cream for a lighter alternative. This adaptability makes it suitable for a variety of diets and preferences.

Gathering Your Ingredients

To make this delicious Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce, you don’t need a long list of ingredients. Most of what you need is likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Components

• Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Both options work well, but chicken thighs tend to be juicier.

• Roasted red peppers: You can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience or roast your own if you prefer.

• Heavy cream or sour cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic will add a nice depth of flavor to the sauce.

• Onions: Yellow or white onions will work best. They bring a subtle sweetness to the dish.

• Fresh herbs: Basil or thyme adds a fragrant touch that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.

Optional Additions

• Parmesan cheese: For extra creaminess and flavor, add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce.

• Red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, red pepper flakes are a great addition.

• Vegetables: You can add some spinach, mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a more hearty, vegetable-packed dish.

Preparing the Chicken

Before cooking, it’s important to prepare your chicken properly for the best results.

Seasoning the Chicken

• Spices: For a well-seasoned chicken, coat the breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. These simple spices bring out the best in the chicken.

• Marinating: If you have time, let the chicken marinate for 15-30 minutes. This helps to infuse the flavors into the meat.

Cooking the Chicken

Searing the Chicken

• Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

• Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until it’s golden brown. The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Set the chicken aside once it’s cooked.

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to make the roasted red pepper sauce. This sauce is creamy, flavorful, and super easy to prepare. Let’s break it down!

Roasting Red Peppers

Using Jarred Peppers

If you’re short on time, jarred roasted red peppers are a quick and easy option. Just drain and rinse them before using. They still have that great roasted flavor!

Roasting Your Own Peppers

If you have a little more time, roasting your peppers adds a deeper, smoky flavor. Here’s how:

• Place whole red peppers on a baking sheet.

• Roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the skins blacken.

• Once roasted, place the peppers in a bowl and cover with a towel or plastic wrap to steam for about 10 minutes.

• Peel off the skin, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers.

Blending the Sauce

Creating the Base

• Add the roasted peppers to a blender or food processor.

• Add garlic, onion, and fresh herbs (like basil or thyme) for extra flavor.

• Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.

Making It Creamy

• Pour the blended mixture into the skillet where you cooked the chicken.

• Stir in heavy cream or sour cream for a rich, creamy sauce.

• Cook over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring often, until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

Now that both your chicken and sauce are ready, it’s time to bring everything together for a perfect meal.

Simmering the Chicken

Add the Chicken to the Sauce

• Place the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.

• Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak up the flavors from the sauce.

• Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.

Check for Doneness

• Ensure the chicken is cooked all the way through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• If the sauce thickens too much, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to keep it smooth.

Final Touches

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Sprinkle some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top for a burst of color and fresh taste.

• You can also grate some Parmesan cheese over the chicken for added richness.

Ready to Serve

• Once the chicken is coated and the sauce is perfect, it’s time to serve.

• This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is ready, let’s think about what to serve it with. The right sides can make this dish even better.

Side Dishes

Rice Pilaf or Couscous

Both rice pilaf and couscous are great choices to pair with this dish. They soak up the delicious sauce and add a light, fluffy texture.

Crusty Bread

A piece of crusty bread is perfect for dipping in the sauce. It adds a nice crunch and helps you enjoy every bit of the creamy sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, complement the dish well. They add color, texture, and extra flavor to your meal.

Salad Pairings

Green Salad

A simple green salad with fresh lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes makes a light, refreshing side. A drizzle of vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the chicken.

Spinach or Arugula Salad

For a more peppery taste, try a spinach or arugula salad. These greens add a nice contrast to the creamy sauce and chicken.

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s take a closer look at the nutrition in Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. It’s always helpful to know what’s in your meal.

Caloric Breakdown

Calories per Serving

This dish is filling, but it’s also balanced. One serving of chicken with sauce has about 400-500 calories. Of course, the calorie count will change depending on what sides you serve it with.

Macronutrients

• Protein: The chicken provides a good amount of protein, about 30-35 grams per serving. Protein is important for muscle repair and keeping you full.

• Fat: The sauce has some healthy fats, especially if you use olive oil and cream. Expect about 20-25 grams of fat per serving.

• Carbohydrates: The carbs come mainly from the sides you serve. The chicken itself has very few carbs.

Health Considerations

High in Protein

This meal is packed with protein, which is great for muscle health and weight management. It helps keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Creamy, But Customizable

While the sauce is creamy, you can lighten it up if needed. For a lower-fat version, use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. You can also use a low-fat sour cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Tips and Variations

Now let’s talk about ways you can make this dish your own. There are many ways to customize Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Dietary Modifications

Gluten-Free Option

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any sides or ingredients you use, like broth, are also gluten-free.

Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice or pasta.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, swap out the heavy cream for coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream. This keeps the dish creamy without the dairy.

Flavor Variations

Add Vegetables

You can make the dish more hearty by adding extra vegetables to the sauce. Try adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. These will add great flavor and texture.

Spicy Kick

If you like your food spicy, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili to the sauce. This will give the dish a nice heat that pairs well with the sweetness of the roasted peppers.

In the next part, we’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about making Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. Stay tuned for the FAQ section!

Here are some common questions people have when making Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can also cook it directly from frozen, but it will take a bit longer to cook through.

How can I make the sauce spicier?

To add some heat, you can mix in red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes! You can make the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use Greek yogurt, coconut milk, or low-fat sour cream as a substitute for heavy cream. These alternatives will still give you a creamy texture.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

We’ve covered everything you need to know about making Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. Enjoy cooking this delicious and easy dish, and feel free to experiment with the variations to make it your own!

Recap of the Dish’s Appeal

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish. It combines juicy chicken with a creamy, smoky sauce that makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and uses just one pan, which makes cleanup easy.

Encouragement to Try the Recipe

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, it’s sure to impress

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: A Flavorful One-Pan Delight

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• Author: Amanda Hartwellen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying one-pan meal. The chicken is cooked in a rich, creamy roasted red pepper sauce that is both smoky and slightly sweet. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special meals with minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 2 roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh basil or thyme (optional)

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Prepare Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

• Cook Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

• Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onions. Add roasted red peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes. Blend the mixture until smooth.

• Finish the Sauce: Return the sauce to the skillet, add cream (or Greek yogurt), and stir until smooth. Simmer for 3 minutes.

• Combine Chicken & Sauce: Place cooked chicken back in the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes.

• Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Serve with rice or salad.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream.

To make the dish spicier, add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili.

You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop (Skillet)
• Cuisine: American, Mediterranean