There’s a certain magic that happens when chicken, colorful peppers, and savory herbs come together in a comforting embrace of flavors. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm hug as you whip up this One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers. One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken It’s like an Italian family reunion on a plate, where every bite transports you to sun-drenched vineyards and bustling markets filled with laughter and love.
Remember the last time you tried to impress your friends with dinner? Maybe it was an epic fail or a triumph that left everyone begging for seconds. This recipe brings out the best in you without requiring a culinary degree. Perfect for weeknight dinners or lazy Sundays, it’s sure to become a staple in your household for years to come.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is incredibly easy to make, allowing you more time to enjoy your meal
- A symphony of flavors dances on your palate with each bite
- Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning and perfect for entertaining guests
- Versatile enough for any occasion, it pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for dipping
Last time I made this dish, my friend exclaimed that it was “better than therapy.” Who knew sautéed vegetables could evoke such strong emotions?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I usually prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts can work if you’re feeling fancy.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for a colorful presentation and varied sweetness.
- Onion: A classic yellow onion adds depth; just don’t forget the tissues! Classic Meat Sauce Lasagna.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they pack a punch that minced garlic can only dream about.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Look for quality brands; they really elevate the sauce’s overall flavor profile.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs will transport this dish straight to Italy—no passport needed!
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; cooking should be an experience, not just fuel.
- Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning; it’s the secret ingredient that elevates everything!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Chicken: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides—this will take about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers and chopped onions into the same pan. Stir occasionally until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Incorporate Garlic and Herbs: Next up is the garlic! Add minced garlic along with Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in canned diced tomatoes (with juices) into the pan. Stir everything together while scraping up any tasty bits stuck at the bottom. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes; patience makes perfect flavor!
Return Chicken to Pan: Nestle those beautiful chicken thighs back into the sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), soaking up all that glorious goodness.
Serve Up Your Creation!: Remove from heat; let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with crusty bread or over pasta—dinner’s ready!
This One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers doesn’t just fill your stomach; it warms your heart too. Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls Enjoy every bite while sharing stories around your table—it’s all about connection after all! Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad.
You Must Know
- When making One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers, use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavor
- Searing the chicken first locks in moisture, while slowly simmering develops richness
- Don’t rush the cooking process; let those flavors mingle and create a delicious sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken until golden brown, then add the peppers and onions to enhance sweetness. Pour in tomatoes and herbs, letting them bubble away into a rich sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping bell peppers for mushrooms or zucchini for a different twist. You can also add olives or capers for an extra salty bite that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on low heat on the stove until heated through, ensuring that each bite retains its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always season your chicken well before searing; this builds flavor right from the start
- Use quality canned tomatoes for a richer sauce and don’t skip sautéing the vegetables; this caramelizes their natural sugars
- Lastly, let it simmer longer if you have time—flavor improves with patience!
The first time I made One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely had time to take a photo! They now request it at every gathering, which makes me feel like a culinary superstar. For more inspiration, check out this One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles recipe.
FAQ
Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts in One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers?
Yes, chicken thighs add more flavor and tenderness when cooked.
What type of wine should I use for this recipe?
A dry red wine complements the flavors beautifully but use what you enjoy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños during cooking for heat.
One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
One-Pan Chicken Cacciatore with Peppers is a vibrant and comforting dish that marries tender chicken thighs with colorful bell peppers and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make recipe will transport you to the heart of Italy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its rich flavors and stunning presentation, it’s bound to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 bell peppers (1 red, 1 yellow, 1 green), sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add sliced bell peppers and chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and scrape any bits from the bottom of the pan. Let simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook on low for another 15-20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve warm with crusty bread or over pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For a twist, substitute bell peppers with mushrooms or zucchini. You can also add olives or capers for extra flavor.
