Chicken in pepper sauce

Chicken in bell pepper sauce – a hearty and flavorful dish that harmoniously blends the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30-40 minutes, you will create a dish that brings joy to the plate.

Number of servings: 4
Total time: 55 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes

Ingredients:
- 600 g chicken (thighs or wings, preferably with bone for richer flavor)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (or more, depending on preference)
- 1 large tomato
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 100 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by peeling the onion, then chop it finely. This will add a special flavor to the sauce.
- Remove the seeds from the bell pepper and cut it into cubes. This will provide a crunchy texture and a sweet note.
- Blanch the tomato to easily remove the skin, then cut it into cubes.

2. Cooking the onion:
- In a large pot, pour in the 4 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat gently. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Adding the meat:
- Add the chicken to the pot. Brown it on all sides until it turns white. This will seal in the juiciness of the meat and add a savory taste to the dish.

4. Including the bell pepper:
- After a few minutes, add the bell pepper cubes. Let them sauté with the meat for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.

5. Boiling:
- Pour the water into the pot, being careful not to exceed the level of the meat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let everything boil on high heat to intensify the flavors.

6. Adding the tomatoes:
- When the water has reduced by half, add the tomato cubes. They will enrich the sauce with a pleasant acidity and vibrant color. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the meat is well done and the sauce has thickened.

7. Serving:
- When the chicken is ready, serve it warm, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This detail will not only add color but also provide a fresh aroma to your dish.

Serving suggestions:
This dish pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, but you can also serve it with a side of rice or a fresh vegetable salad. If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include some green or black olives in the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe history:
Chicken in bell pepper sauce is a dish found in many traditional kitchens, based on simple ingredients with a strong taste impact. Bell peppers, being a staple ingredient in many dishes, have been used over time to add sweetness and a crunchy texture. This recipe relies on easily achievable combinations but results in an impressive outcome.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for developing and maintaining muscle mass. Bell peppers provide significant amounts of vitamins, especially vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Tomatoes, rich in lycopene, contribute to cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey can be used as an alternative, having a similar taste and delicate texture.

- How can I enhance the sauce?
You can add some spices like paprika or herbs such as oregano and basil for a more intense flavor.

- Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the dish after it has completely cooled. When you want to serve it, thaw and reheat.

Possible variations:
- Stuffed bell peppers: You can use the bell peppers to stuff them with the meat mixture and then cook them in the sauce.
- Adding vegetables: You can add carrots or zucchini to enrich the dish with more vitamins.

Now that you know all these details, all that’s left is to start cooking! Chicken in bell pepper sauce is an easy, delicious, and colorful recipe, perfect for bringing a touch of joy to every meal. Enjoy your meal!