Name: Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: italian
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs or breasts; 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced; 1/2 lb Italian sausage or pancetta, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 onion, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional); 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Parmesan cheese, for garnish

inesboulila A plate of Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and ee1c9ba8 0d58 45a3 8e52 1e85809d7939

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and rich meats such as sausage or pancetta. This dish is a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Simmered in a delicious tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and spices, this recipe captures the essence of rustic Italian cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and hearty flavors: The combination of chicken, peppers, and additional meats provides a depth of flavor that is truly comforting.
Easy one-pan meal: Everything is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Versatile: You can customize this dish with different meats, peppers, or even make it spicier to suit your taste.
Perfect for meal prep: The flavors deepen over time, making it a great dish to enjoy as leftovers.
Authentic Italian essence: This dish embodies the rich and bold flavors of traditional Italian cooking.

Ingredients

Chicken (thighs or breasts)
Bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
Italian sausage or pancetta
Onion
Garlic cloves
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Olive oil
Chicken broth
Dry white wine (optional)
Fresh basil
Fresh parsley
Oregano
Red pepper flakes
Salt
Black pepper
Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the ingredients: Slice the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cut the sausage or pancetta into bite-sized pieces.
Brown the meats: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage or pancetta and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sear the chicken: In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until golden brown on both sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the sliced onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until softened and aromatic.
Deglaze the pan: Pour in white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Combine the ingredients: Return the chicken and sausage/pancetta to the skillet. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
Season the dish: Add oregano, red pepper flakes, and chopped fresh basil. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Variations

Make it spicier: Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
Use different meats: Swap sausage for chorizo or prosciutto for a unique twist.
Add more veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra texture.
Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone for a richer sauce.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well and will cook faster than bone-in pieces.

2. What type of sausage is best?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) is ideal, but you can use any flavorful sausage you prefer.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. What can I serve this with?

It pairs well with pasta, polenta, rice, or crusty bread.

5. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Skip the meats and add more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.

6. Can I use canned roasted peppers instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh peppers add a better texture and natural sweetness.

7. Is there a substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

8. How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

9. Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Absolutely! Adding Parmesan or a bit of mozzarella will enhance the creaminess.

10. How do I make it low-carb?

Serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Conclusion

Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat is a delicious, hearty dish that brings the best of Italian flavors to your table. Whether served over pasta or with a side of crusty bread, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Try it for your next dinner and enjoy the rich, comforting taste of home-cooked Italian cuisine!

Print