This Low Carb Chicken and Peppers recipe is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines tender chicken breast with colorful bell peppers, all sautéed to perfection. Bursting with flavor, it’s a satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with low-carb lifestyles without sacrificing taste. Quick to whip up and packed with nutrients, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or as a meal prep option for the entire week.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of sautéed chicken and fresh bell peppers creates a delightful medley that is both healthy and filling. The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Additionally, it fits seamlessly into a low-carb diet, providing a hearty meal without the excess carbs, making it ideal for those watching their carbohydrate intake or looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh bell peppers and herbs for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced veggies are a great alternative.
- Marinate Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and your choice of spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- High Heat: Cook on medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear on the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy inside while getting a crispy exterior.
- One-Pan Wonder: Use a large skillet to cook everything in one pan, reducing cleanup time and allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken a day in advance to infuse it with flavor. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and let the chicken soak overnight in the fridge. Chopped peppers can also be prepped a few days ahead and stored in an airtight container. Cooked chicken and peppers will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- Different Proteins: Swap out chicken for turkey, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in some cream cheese or heavy cream at the end for a creamy version of this dish.
- Different Veggies: Experiment with zucchini, squash, or even mushrooms to add more variety and nutrition.
How to Serve
Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet. For a beautiful presentation, plate it on a colorful dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color. Consider serving it over a bed of cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lime will complement the flavors nicely. As for side dishes, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus would be delightful companions.
How to Store
Leftover chicken and peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan to cook this dish. A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for chopping the chicken and vegetables. If you prefer, you can also use a cast-iron skillet for better heat retention and flavor. An alternative could be a non-stick pan if you’re watching the amount of oil used.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a dairy-free adaptation, simply skip any creamy additions. If you’re nut-free, this recipe is naturally compliant, but always check for cross-contamination with any pre-packaged ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, take advantage of fresh garden vegetables by using heirloom tomatoes instead of bell peppers and adding fresh basil. In winter, you could add roasted root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for a heartier dish, which will balance the flavors while still keeping it low-carb.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
- What if I don’t have bell peppers? You can substitute with other vegetables like zucchini or broccoli.
- How long do I cook the chicken? Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through.
- Can I use other spices? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices based on your preferences, such as cumin, paprika, or Italian herbs.
How To Make low carb chicken and peppers recipe
Low Carb Chicken and Peppers
This Low Carb Chicken and Peppers recipe is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines tender chicken breast with colorful bell peppers, all sautéed to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they are tender but still crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix with the vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 279Total Fat 11gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 8gCholesterol 96mgSodium 161mgCarbohydrates 7gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 36g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb chicken and peppers recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome and delicious option for any meal. With its ease of preparation, vibrant flavors, and adaptability to various dietary needs, it’s a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish will not disappoint. Enjoy your culinary creation and share it with loved ones!