Are you tired of bland, boring chicken recipes that leave you uninspired? Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Freezer Red Pepper Chicken – a game-changing dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and convenience in one incredible meal! Whether you're a busy professional, a meal-prep enthusiast, or just someone who loves delicious, quick dinners, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting chicken breast into even 1-inch cubes, ensuring uniform cooking. Slice red bell pepper and onion into thin, consistent strips.
- Season chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and black pepper, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly with the spice mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippled.
- Add chicken cubes to the hot pan, arranging them in a single layer to ensure proper browning. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop.
- Flip chicken pieces and add sliced onions and red bell peppers to the pan. Continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Check chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, maintaining moisture and tenderness.
- Optional: For freezer meal preparation, cool completely and transfer to freezer-safe containers, labeling with date and contents.
- Serve hot with rice, pasta, or your preferred side dish. If using a frozen preparation, thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Tips
- Chicken Cutting Hack: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with the paprika! It adds a beautiful color and depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special.
- Skillet Success: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for the best browning and heat distribution.
- Freezer Meal Magic: When preparing for freezing, cool the chicken completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup and potential freezer burn.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor punch, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking or adding a splash of lemon juice at the end.
- Meal Prep Pro Tip: This recipe freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it perfect for advance preparation and busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 94mg
