Chicken with bell peppers

Chicken with Peppers - A Savory Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

This chicken with peppers recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to bring Mediterranean flavors into your kitchen. It's simple, quick, and perfect for a family dinner or with friends. The story of this recipe intertwines with rich culinary traditions, where chicken harmoniously combines with fresh vegetables, creating a dish that blends taste with health. Let's discover together how to prepare this dish!

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 green pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow pepper
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 5-6 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of white wine
- a few sprigs of fresh thyme (or dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon of lemon pepper (or a lemon pepper blend)
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water, then dry them with a paper towel. This step is important for achieving a nice browning. Slice the onion into thin rings and the peppers into strips. Cut the garlic in half to release its intense aroma.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and peppers, sautéing for about 1 minute, just until they soften a bit and release their aromas. This step is essential as sautéing the vegetables will enhance their flavor.

3. Preparing the baking dish: Take a heat-resistant dish and place the chicken thighs in it. Season them with salt and lemon pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated. This seasoning will give the chicken a fresh, citrusy note.

4. Adding the vegetables and liquid: After the vegetables have been sautéed, add them over the chicken thighs. Pour the remaining oil from the skillet and the white wine into the dish. The wine will add a note of complexity and help tenderize the meat.

5. Adding garlic and thyme: Place the garlic cloves alongside the chicken and sprinkle fresh (or dried) thyme on top. Thyme has antioxidant properties and will enrich the flavor of the dish.

6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 200°C for 30 minutes. This step will help retain the moisture of the meat and allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

7. Finishing: After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil. Use a spatula to push the vegetables into the liquid so they don’t burn. Add a teaspoon of lemon juice over each thigh to intensify the flavors. Let the thighs brown for 10-15 minutes, turning them on both sides to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Serving: The chicken with peppers is served hot, alongside sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, or couscous. These sides will absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce formed during baking.

Practical tips:
- You can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but you should reduce the cooking time as the breast cooks faster.
- If you want an even more intense flavor, add a few black or green olives in the last minutes of baking.
- For added flavor, you can use fresh herbs like oregano or rosemary.

Nutritional information:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and fiber. Each serving contains approximately 350-400 kcal, making it a balanced choice for a nourishing meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Of course! You can add zucchini, eggplant, or carrots, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftover chicken, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Can it be frozen? This recipe can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.

In conclusion, chicken with peppers is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. With each bite, you will feel how the flavors combine harmoniously, and the meal becomes a true culinary experience. So, I invite you to start cooking and enjoy this wonderful recipe! Enjoy your meal!