Keto Chicken and Peppers is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts and colorful bell peppers sautéed to perfection. This one-pan meal is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate, making it an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic diet. With its low-carb profile, high protein content, and an array of aromatic spices, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love Keto Chicken and Peppers for its incredible flavor and simplicity. The combination of succulent chicken with the crunch of fresh bell peppers creates a delightful texture contrast that is hard to resist. It’s an effortless dish to whip up, requiring minimal prep and cook time, which is fantastic for busy home cooks. Plus, it aligns perfectly with the keto lifestyle, providing a hearty meal packed with protein while keeping carbs at bay. Whether you’re looking to impress at dinner or simply enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe fits the bill.
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate for Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and your choice of spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Sauté at High Heat: Cooking the chicken and peppers over high heat helps to create a beautiful sear, enhancing the flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and herbs will yield the best taste, so opt for organic if possible.
- Batch Cooking: Consider preparing a double batch; this dish refrigerates well and is perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor. Additionally, chopped vegetables can be prepped a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fully cooked dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated as needed.
Recipe Variations
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp, beef strips, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or even a dash of curry powder for a unique flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Include zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli for additional nutrients and color.
How to Serve
Serve your Keto Chicken and Peppers over a bed of cauliflower rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
Complement this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lime. Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar for a refreshing side, and if you have a sweet tooth, a low-carb dessert like almond flour brownies will round out the meal beautifully.
How to Store
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan for this recipe. A sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the chicken and vegetables are also essential. Alternatively, a cast-iron skillet can enhance the sear on the chicken.
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, ensure your spices are dairy-free and use olive oil instead of butter. To make it nut-free, simply omit any nut-based spices or marinades. For a vegetarian adaptation, replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, ensuring it’s well-seasoned.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh garden peppers and tomatoes for a burst of color and flavor. In the fall or winter, consider adding roasted butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hearty twist while still keeping it keto-friendly.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking results.
- What if I don’t have bell peppers? You can substitute with other colorful vegetables such as asparagus, snap peas, or even green beans.
- How long does it take to cook? The chicken generally takes about 10-15 minutes to cook through, depending on thickness.
Keto Chicken and Peppers
Keto Chicken and Peppers is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts and colorful bell peppers sautéed to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken strips, olive oil, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil if necessary.
- Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 191Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 51mgSodium: 122mgCarbohydrates: 7gFiber: 1gSugar: 3gProtein: 20g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Keto Chicken and Peppers is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings comfort and satisfaction without sacrificing your dietary goals. With its ease of preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process, experiment with variations, and savor every delicious bite!
