Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is your new go-to. It combines tender chicken with a luscious homemade roasted red pepper sauce that’s both smoky and slightly sweet, making for a perfect weekday dinner that never feels ordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal that feels special but comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Dinner Solution: Ready in under half an hour, perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The roasted red pepper sauce offers a smoky sweetness that elevates simple chicken breasts.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required because everything cooks right in the skillet.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily modified to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Impressively Elegant: Feels like a restaurant-quality dish without complicated steps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of fresh and pantry staples that come together in harmony to build layers of taste, texture, and color. Each ingredient plays a key role in both flavor and appearance, making it easy to pull off a beautiful and delicious meal.

• Boneless chicken breasts: Choose evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking and juicy results.
• Roasted red peppers: These bring a smoky sweetness and vibrant color—jarred versions work beautifully.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to add a punch of aromatic depth.
• Onion: Sautéed to soften and create a subtle savory base for the sauce.
• Olive oil: For perfect browning and a smooth sauce texture.
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and richness without overpowering the peppers.
• Heavy cream or coconut milk: Creates a velvety, silky sauce with a hint of indulgence.
• Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor, tying the sauce together.
• Fresh herbs (parsley or basil): For a bright, fresh finishing touch.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.

Variations for Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

One of the best parts about Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is how easy it is to customize. Feel free to switch ingredients or add your favorite elements to keep the recipe fresh and tailored to your palate or dietary style.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to give the sauce a little heat.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with thick slices of grilled eggplant or portobello mushrooms.
• Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a tropical twist and allergy-friendly option.
• Extra protein boost: Toss in cooked chickpeas or white beans for added texture and nutrition.
• Cheesy finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top before serving for richness.

How to Make Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides—about 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a touch more olive oil if needed and toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning.

Step 3: Create the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Add jarred roasted red peppers to the skillet along with the chicken broth. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Then transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth. Return the sauce to the skillet.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce and Combine

Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and warm gently over low heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional smoked paprika if desired. Nestle the chicken back into the sauce and let it cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top before serving to add a burst of freshness and color to your skillet chicken in roasted red pepper sauce.

Pro Tips for Making Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

• Even chicken thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and juicier results.
• Use high-quality roasted peppers: The flavor of your sauce hinges on good peppers; opt for fire-roasted if possible.
• Don’t rush the sear: Proper browning forms a flavor foundation and texture contrast for the dish.
• Smooth sauce shortcut: Blending the sauce gives it a luxurious texture that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Rest before serving: Let the chicken rest a few minutes in the sauce so it soaks up the flavors fully.

How to Serve Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add brightness and a lovely green contrast. For an extra touch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or grated Parmesan for texture and flavor pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles to soak up that gorgeous roasted red pepper sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside sautéed greens or a crisp mixed salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic look that feels cozy and inviting. Alternatively, plate the chicken over a bed of polenta or creamy grits for a Southern-inspired twist that’s bursting with comfort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen even more after resting overnight.

Freezing

If you want to save this for later, freeze the fully cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they stay extra juicy; just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is the sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and double-check the ingredients on jarred roasted peppers.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Coconut milk is a fantastic dairy-free substitute, adding a subtle sweetness that blends beautifully with the roasted red pepper flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the chicken just before serving, or fully assemble and reheat gently when ready.

How spicy is this dish?

The Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is typically mild, but you can easily add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat if you like it spicier.

Final Thoughts

This Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a true winner when you want a meal that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. With its vibrant color, rich flavor, and simple technique, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again. Give it a try tonight and enjoy all the savory goodness in just one skillet!

Related Posts

• Sticky Honey Butter Salmon Zith Creamy Chili Dip
• Jalapeño Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos with Buffalo Sauce
• meatloaf covered in cheddar cheese

Print