Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken
Looking for a comforting yet simple dish? This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken is a must-try! Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a velvety, flavorful sauce made with roasted red peppers, aromatic garlic, sautéed onions, and a blend of savory spices.
Perfect for a cozy dinner, this versatile meal pairs well with quinoa, whole-grain pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Creamy – The roasted red pepper sauce is smooth, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.
✔ Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
✔ Healthy & Satisfying – Packed with lean protein and nutritious ingredients, this meal keeps you full without feeling heavy.
Enjoy a bold, creamy twist on classic chicken dishes with this easy and delicious recipe!
Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken
Want a flavorful and comforting meal that’s quick to prepare? This Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Chicken is the perfect choice! Tender chicken is simmered in a rich, velvety sauce made with roasted red peppers, garlic, onions, and warm spices.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Made with Simple Ingredients – No fancy ingredients required!
✅ Quick & Effortless – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
✅ Versatile & Customizable – Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside roasted veggies.
✅ Diet-Friendly – Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free adaptable, and packed with protein.
Looking for more delicious chicken recipes? Try our Savory Garlic Chicken or Lemon Herb Chicken Skillet for more easy weeknight meals!
Ingredients & Substitutions
These are the key ingredients for this creamy red pepper chicken:
✔ Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless breasts or swap for chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
✔ Onion & Garlic – Adds depth and aroma; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
✔ Roasted Red Peppers – A sweet, smoky element that enhances the sauce. You can use fresh peppers and sauté them until soft if needed.
✔ Coconut Milk – The secret to a creamy, dairy-free sauce! Substitute with heavy cream or half-and-half if preferred.
✔ Seasonings – A blend of smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to bring out the flavors.
✔ Fresh Herbs (Optional) – Garnish with parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
Taste & Texture
The chicken is juicy and tender, while the sauce is creamy and bold, with a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors from the roasted red peppers. Each bite is rich, smooth, and incredibly satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, releasing its rich aroma.
Step 3: Incorporate the Roasted Peppers
Stir in the roasted red peppers, allowing them to warm up and absorb the flavors of the aromatics. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk and add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and additional salt and pepper. Stir well, ensuring all the ingredients blend into a smooth, flavorful sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the creamy red pepper sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the sauce.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor. Serve this creamy red pepper chicken over a bed of quinoa, brown rice, or sautéed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Red Pepper Chicken
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Enhance the Flavor with Roasted Peppers – For a richer taste, roast your own red peppers by charring them over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin blisters. Peel before using.
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Use Fresh Peppers for Convenience – Short on time? Fresh red bell peppers sautéed until soft work as a great substitute.
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Customize the Spice Level – If you love a bit of heat, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
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Make It Extra Creamy – For an even richer sauce, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cream cheese before serving.
Creative Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
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Fresh Herbs: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
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Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture and nutrients.
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Protein Swaps: Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
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Cheesy Addition: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Serve & Store
Best Ways to Serve Red Pepper Chicken
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Over Grains: Serve atop quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a balanced meal.
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With Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
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Over Pasta: Toss with whole wheat pasta, zucchini noodles, or chickpea pasta for a hearty dish.
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As a Wrap: Serve in warm tortillas or lettuce wraps for a fresh take.
Storing & Reheating Tips
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Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge.
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Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?
Absolutely! If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
2. Can I use raw red peppers instead of roasted?
Yes! Fresh red bell peppers work just as well, but they may take a few extra minutes to soften when sautéing.
3. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the chicken and onions, then add the remaining ingredients and pressure cook on high for 8-10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for best results.
Essential Kitchen Tools
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Large Nonstick Skillet – Ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and creating a smooth, flavorful sauce.
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Blender or Immersion Blender – If you prefer a silky smooth sauce, blend the roasted red peppers before adding them.
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Tongs – Helps flip the chicken without breaking it apart.
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