When it comes to flavorful, easy-to-make meals, the chicken and peppers recipe is a go-to dish that never disappoints. This simple Roman dish, known as pollo con peperoni, offers tender chicken thighs paired with vibrant bell peppers, garlic, and high-quality crushed tomatoes. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting a casual dinner, this Italian-style chicken dish fits right in.
Personally, I love this chicken and peppers recipe for its satisfying balance of juicy, tender chicken thighs and the tangy sweetness of the bell peppers. The combination creates a flavor-packed dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for those who want to whip up a quick meal without compromising on taste. Serve it with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner. It’s the kind of dish that’s ideal for a cozy family dinner or even when you’re having friends over for a casual gathering.
How to Choose the Right Main Ingredients:
The success of this recipe relies on selecting high-quality ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Let’s start with the chicken:
- Chicken Thighs: Opt for boneless skinless chicken thighs for this dish. They are naturally juicy and tender, which makes them perfect for braising. Boneless chicken thighs allow for quicker cooking and more even seasoning, while the skinless option ensures you don’t get too much fat in the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Using a variety of green and red bell peppers is key to getting the right balance of sweetness and crunch. The mixed colors not only add visual appeal but also enhance the flavor. Red bell peppers are sweeter, while green bell peppers offer a slightly bitter, earthy taste that complements the richness of the chicken thighs.
- Garlic and Plum Tomatoes: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe, as it adds a fragrant depth to the dish. As for the tomatoes, opt for plum tomatoes or a can of high-quality crushed tomatoes. If using canned, make sure to drain tomatoes to avoid a watery sauce, then crush tomatoes by hand or with a masher to release their natural juices.
How to Season the Chicken and Peppers Recipe:
When it comes to seasoning this Italian-style chicken dish, it’s important to keep things simple but effective. The focus is on enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and bell peppers.
- Olive Oil: Start by heating some good-quality olive oil in a stainless steel frypan or a large roasting pan. Olive oil adds richness and helps to sear the chicken, giving it that beautiful golden crust.
- Garlic, Salt, and Pepper: Season liberally with fresh garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. These classic flavors work beautifully with chicken thighs and mixed bell peppers.
- White Wine and Tomatoes: For an extra layer of depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the crushed tomatoes. This adds acidity and brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes and bell peppers.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and How to Use It Effectively:
To ensure your chicken and peppers recipe turns out tender and full of flavor, the right cooking equipment is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Roasting Pan or Stainless Steel Frypan: A large roasting pan or a stainless steel frypan is perfect for this dish because it allows you to sear the chicken thighs evenly. Make sure the pan is big enough to hold all the ingredients in a single layer without overcrowding.
Tip: When using a roasting pan, preheat it in the oven to ensure the chicken thighs start searing the moment they hit the hot pan. For a stainless steel frypan, heat the pan on medium-high heat, then add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to sear the chicken thighs. - Paper Towels: Before cooking, use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step is crucial to achieve that perfect golden-brown sear. Moisture on the chicken will steam instead of searing, leaving you with soggy skin.
- Tongs: Use a pair of tongs to flip the chicken thighs in the pan. This helps you turn the chicken easily without tearing the delicate meat.
Comprehensive Chicken and Peppers Recipe
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s dive into the full recipe. This easy-to-make, Italian-style chicken dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner.
Chicken and Peppers Recipe
Chicken and Peppers Recipe is one of my all-time favorite dishes. The combination of tender chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomato sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. It's easy to make, satisfying, and ideal for any family meal. Every bite is a burst of Italian comfort and warmth.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can high-quality crushed tomatoes (400g), drain tomatoes if using whole
- ½ cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to season liberally
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large roasting pan or stainless steel frypan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken thighs for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Peppers: In the same pan, add the sliced green and red bell peppers and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the peppers begin to soften and the garlic is fragrant.
- Deglaze with White Wine: Add the white wine to the pan to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stir to combine, and bring the sauce to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Braise the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the pan and let the chicken braise in the sauce for 20-25 minutes on low heat, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with crusty garlic bread or over rice.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 350Total Fat: 15gCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 4gProtein: 24g
Serving Suggestions:
This chicken and peppers recipe pairs beautifully with various side dishes. For a wholesome Italian-style meal, serve it alongside:
- Crusty Garlic Bread: The rich sauce from the dish is perfect for dipping.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar balances out the heartiness of the chicken.
- Pasta or Rice: For a more filling meal, serve the dish over spaghetti, penne, or a bed of fluffy rice.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the chicken, bell peppers, and tomatoes makes all the difference in this recipe. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of the entire dish.
- Searing is Key: Don’t rush the searing process. This step locks in the juices of the chicken thighs and creates that delicious caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning! Properly seasoning the chicken and peppers ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overcrowding the Pan: If you overcrowd the pan while searing, the chicken will steam instead of getting that beautiful golden sear. Make sure to give each piece enough space.
- Using Low Heat: When searing, always use medium-high heat. This is essential to achieve the desired caramelization on the chicken.
- Skipping the Deglazing Step: Don’t skip deglazing the pan with wine or broth. This step helps you lift those tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pan, adding rich flavor to your sauce.
Conclusion:
This chicken and peppers recipe is a family favorite for good reason. With tender, flavorful chicken thighs and a vibrant mix of bell peppers, it’s an easy recipe that you can rely on for a quick and easy dinner. The combination of juicy chicken and a savory tomato-based sauce makes it a delicious recipe that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on its own, with pasta, or paired with crusty bread.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this Italian-style chicken recipe delivers on taste and ease. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a one-pan dish that’s bursting with flavor in less than an hour.Ready to try this satisfying dish? Don’t forget to season liberally, sear your chicken, and enjoy every bite of this comforting, Italian-inspired meal.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.