Chicken and bell pepper is a classic combination that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you prefer it grilled, baked, or sautéed, chicken and bell peppers are versatile and lend themselves to a variety of flavors and preparations. In this article, we’ll explore some healthy and flavorful chicken and bell pepper recipes that you can try at home.
The Benefits of Chicken and Bell Peppers
Chicken
Chicken is a lean source of protein and is low in saturated fat, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. It’s also packed with nutrients such as B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and brain function, and selenium, which has antioxidant properties and has been shown to support the immune system.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. They also contain vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and fiber, which can support digestion and help you feel full.
Healthy Chicken and Bell Pepper Recipes
1. Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken with Bell Peppers
This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues and takes only 20 minutes to make. Here’s what you need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the grilled chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken in the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Grill the chicken breasts for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- In the meantime, grill the sliced bell peppers until tender and slightly charred, about 5 minutes.
- Serve the chicken topped with the grilled bell peppers.
2. One-Pan Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and takes only 30 minutes to make. Here’s what you need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make the stir-fry:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and pour the soy sauce mixture over the top.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve the stir-fry over brown rice or quinoa.
3. Baked Chicken and Bell Pepper Casserole
This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and takes only 45 minutes to make. Here’s what you need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
To make the casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove the bell peppers and onion from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the cubed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the dried basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Let the mixture come to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Serve the casserole with a side salad or roasted vegetables.
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