Red Pepper Lemon Chicken

If you’re looking for a vibrant, tangy, and flavorful chicken dish that’ll brighten up your dinner table, look no further than this Red Pepper Lemon Chicken. With the perfect balance of zesty lemon, smoky red pepper, and tender chicken, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. It’s simple, delicious, and full of flavor—ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without too much effort.

The combination of the fresh, citrusy lemon and the sweet, slightly spicy red pepper creates a sauce that beautifully coats the chicken, making each bite a juicy, mouthwatering experience. And the best part? It’s quick to prepare, with minimal ingredients but maximum impact. Get ready to fall in love with this easy, yet irresistible dish.

Why You’ll Love Red Pepper Lemon Chicken

Bright and Flavorful: The mix of lemon and red pepper creates an irresistible tangy-sweet flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. It’s a flavor combo you won’t be able to get enough of.

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those times when you want a tasty meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Versatile: This dish pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides—whether you want to serve it with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and flexible.

Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is light but filling, making it a great option for anyone looking for a healthy dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Kid-Friendly: The flavors are mild enough to please younger palates, while still offering plenty of zest for adults to enjoy. It’s a family-friendly meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

For the red pepper lemon chicken:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lighter option or thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
• Red Bell Pepper: Fresh red bell pepper adds a sweet, slightly smoky flavor to the dish.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide that zesty citrus punch that ties everything together.
• Garlic: A few cloves of garlic bring an aromatic warmth to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the chicken and making the sauce.
• Honey: A touch of honey to balance out the acidity from the lemon and add a subtle sweetness.
• Paprika: For a mild smoky flavor that complements the red pepper and chicken.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, ensuring the chicken and sauce are perfectly seasoned.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil: For garnish and added freshness.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika on both sides. This simple step builds the foundation of flavor.

2. Sauté the Chicken

Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the Red Pepper Lemon Sauce

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and toss in the chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the pepper softens. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add Lemon and Honey

Next, add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey to the pan. Stir everything together to combine, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken for about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or honey if needed.

5. Return Chicken to the Pan

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the red pepper lemon sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and coated in the sauce, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with your choice of side dish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 300
Total Fat: 12g

• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 75mg
  Sodium: 250mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 10g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 7g
  Protein: 36g
  Vitamin A: 25%
  Vitamin C: 70%
  Calcium: 4%
  Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Red Pepper Lemon Chicken

With Rice: Serve this flavorful chicken over a bed of fluffy rice, which will soak up all the delicious sauce. Brown rice or jasmine rice are great options.

Roasted Vegetables: Pair with a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots to add more color and texture to your meal.

Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will complement the dish’s bright flavors perfectly.

Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve this chicken alongside creamy mashed potatoes to balance the zesty, savory sauce.

Crusty Bread: You can’t go wrong with a slice of warm, crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce.

Additional Tips

Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer bone-in chicken, this recipe works just as well! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in cuts may take a bit longer to cook through.

Adjust the Spice: If you want a bit more heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili to the sauce for some extra kick.

Make It Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead, then reheat when ready to serve. The flavors actually improve overnight!

Add More Veggies: You can sneak in some extra veggies like spinach or zucchini into the sauce for added nutrition.

For a Smokier Flavor: If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to the chicken seasoning and sauce.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A1: Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe. They’re juicier and more flavorful, though they may require a little longer to cook.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without honey?

A2: Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the honey, you can use a bit of maple syrup, or even brown sugar for a different kind of sweetness, or leave it out entirely.

Q3: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

A3: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust to taste.

Q4: Can I make this dish in advance?

A4: You can cook the chicken and the sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Q5: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

A5: The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear. If you don’t have a thermometer, just check that the meat is no longer pink in the center.

Q6: Can I freeze leftover chicken?

A6: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Q7: What other herbs can I use besides parsley?

A7: You could also use fresh basil, thyme, or dill as a garnish, depending on your flavor preferences.

Q8: Can I make this recipe spicier?

A8: If you like spice, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick!

Q9: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A9: It’s best to use fresh or thawed chicken for this recipe, but if you have frozen chicken, just be sure to thaw it first to ensure even cooking.

Q10: What sides go best with Red Pepper Lemon Chicken?

A10: Some great side options include roasted vegetables, a simple salad, rice, quinoa, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

This Red Pepper Lemon Chicken is one of those dishes that’s so simple, yet so satisfying. The fresh, zesty lemon and smoky red pepper bring a deliciously bright flavor to every bite, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a more festive occasion. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both flavorful and healthy. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a complete, mouthwatering meal in no time!

Print