Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken – A Flavor-Packed, Colorful Dinner Favorite

Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken

Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken pieces and crunchy, colorful bell peppers tossed in a bold, flavorful sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between heat and sweetness, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves a little spice in their meal without overwhelming the palate. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that the whole family can enjoy.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken

This dish is a celebration of texture and flavor. The bell peppers provide a satisfying crunch and a pop of color, while the chicken is juicy and infused with the spicy, savory sauce. It’s healthy and versatile, perfect served over steamed rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option. Plus, it’s quick to make and uses common ingredients, so it’s a great recipe to keep on hand for busy evenings when you want something tasty without the fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken, you only need a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients that combine effortlessly to create a vibrant and flavorful dish. From tender chicken pieces to crisp, colorful bell peppers and a punchy blend of spices and sauces, this recipe is all about simplicity and bold taste. Whether you’re a busy home cook or new to the kitchen, these straightforward ingredients make it easy to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.

  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Bell peppers in a variety of colors (red, yellow, green) for sweetness and crunch
  • Garlic and ginger for depth of flavor
  • Soy sauce and chili paste or flakes to add spice and umami
  • A touch of honey or brown sugar for balance
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Nutritional Benefits

This dish offers a good source of lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from the colorful bell peppers, including vitamin C and antioxidants. It’s a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing, especially when paired with a whole grain like brown rice or quinoa.

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 fresh jalapeños or other chili peppers, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp chili sauce or hot sauce (like sriracha)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken – Step-by-Step

Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. Featuring tender chicken pieces sautéed with colorful bell peppers and a bold blend of spices, this recipe is both quick and satisfying. It’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty, packed with flavor, and easy to prepare. Whether served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own, this dish brings a delightful kick to your meal.

  1. Prepare the chicken and bell peppers by slicing them into bite-sized pieces.
  2. In a hot skillet, sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  3. Add the chicken and cook until browned and nearly cooked through.
  4. Toss in the bell peppers and cook until just tender but still crisp.
  5. Mix in soy sauce, chili paste, and a bit of honey, stirring to coat everything evenly.
  6. Simmer briefly to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Feel free to swap chicken for tofu or shrimp if you prefer a vegetarian or seafood version. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili paste, or try different kinds of peppers to vary the heat and flavor. Adding a splash of lime juice at the end brightens the dish and adds a fresh twist.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftover Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep the chicken tender and the vegetables crisp. Avoid overcooking during reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken

Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of simple sides that help balance its bold flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite satisfying. For a fresh contrast, serve it alongside sautéed greens or a crisp cucumber salad—these lighter sides cool the palate and complement the dish’s spicy kick perfectly. Together, they create a well-rounded and flavorful meal that’s both comforting and vibrant.

Kid-Friendly Tips

To make this dish more approachable for kids, reduce the amount of chili or opt for milder peppers like sweet bell peppers without added heat. You can also serve the spicy sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle just a little over the chicken and veggies. Pair it with a simple side like steamed rice or plain noodles to balance the flavors.

Chef’s Special Tips

For the best results, use fresh, vibrant bell peppers and cook them just until tender to maintain their crunch. Marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce and garlic before cooking for extra flavor. And don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and aroma.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Bell Pepper Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and quick to whip up, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Its bold flavors and colorful presentation will impress both family and friends. Try this recipe tonight and share your spicy creations with #BellPepperChicken — we’d love to see your twist on this fiery favorite.

FAQs

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well for this dish. Thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving, while breasts offer a leaner option.

The heat level can be adjusted by the amount and type of chili peppers used. You can make it mild by using bell peppers only or add jalapeños or chili flakes for extra kick.

Yes! This dish reheats well and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

It can be, depending on the sauces and seasonings you use. Opt for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Steamed rice, quinoa, sautéed greens, or a crisp cucumber salad are excellent choices that balance the bold flavors of the chicken.

Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan and use vegan-friendly sauces to enjoy a plant-based version of this flavorful dish.