Chicken with bell peppers

Pepper Chicken Dish - A Colorful Delicacy with Unforgettable Flavor

Who doesn't love a meal rich in aromas and colors? Pepper chicken is a traditional recipe that combines fresh ingredients and beloved flavors all in one pot. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of joy to the table, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 700 g chicken (drumsticks)
- 1 kg peppers of all colors (red, green, yellow)
- 3 large onions
- 400 g chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or hot, to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Vegeta (or a preferred spice mix)
- Pepper (freshly ground)
- Salt, to taste

A bit of history:
Pepper chicken is a popular recipe in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary traditions. Peppers, with their crunchy texture and vibrant colors, not only add an appealing look but also a healthy dose of vitamins. This recipe combines the intense flavors of onions and spices with the juiciness of chicken, offering a comforting and flavorful dish.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Wash the chicken drumsticks well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any remaining feathers and excess fat.
- Clean the peppers, remove the seeds, and cut them into thin strips. They will add a note of freshness and sweetness to your dish.
- Peel the onions and chop them finely. This will form the flavor base of your meal.

2. Cooking the drumsticks:
- In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken drumsticks. Fry them on both sides for 5 minutes or until golden.
- Once fried, remove the drumsticks to a plate and set aside.

3. Sautéing the onions and spices:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the paprika, Vegeta, pepper, and salt. These spices will add a deep and complex flavor to the entire dish.

4. Adding the peppers:
- Add the pepper strips to the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes. The peppers will start to release their juice and soften slightly, bringing a delicate texture to the dish.

5. Combining the ingredients:
- Return the drumsticks to the pot, add enough water to cover the ingredients, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is the perfect time to enjoy the enticing aroma spreading through the kitchen.

6. Adding the tomatoes and tomato paste:
- Add the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste, mixing well. These ingredients will enrich the sauce and add a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the peppers.

7. Baking in the oven:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the pot to the oven and let the dish simmer for 20-25 minutes. This step will help the sauce reduce and intensify the flavors.

8. Finalizing the dish:
- After baking, add the chopped dill and parsley, mixing gently. Let the dish sit in the oven for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Serving:
Pepper chicken is fabulous served with warm polenta or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor. A simple green salad or garlic sauce can add a refreshing touch to the dish.

Practical tips:
- Use peppers of different colors for a more vibrant appearance and a variety of vitamins.
- If you don't have drumsticks, you can use chicken breast or thighs, but the cooking time will vary.
- Taste the dish before serving, adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen peppers?
- Yes, but it is recommended to use fresh peppers for better taste.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
- Add some hot pepper or a few drops of hot sauce during cooking.

3. What other sides can I serve with pepper chicken?
- Rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options to complement this meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and packed with essential vitamins from the vegetables. Peppers are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, while onions provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.

Possible variations:
- Replace chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or oregano, to give the dish a unique twist.

Pepper chicken is more than just a simple recipe; it is a symbol of comfort and the joy of cooking. I invite you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!