Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:
- 2 large roasted red peppers (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Breast
The first step to a delicious dish is perfectly cooked chicken. Here’s how to get it right:
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then season generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear for Flavor: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t worry if it’s not fully cooked; it’ll finish cooking later.
- Set Aside: Transfer the seared chicken to a plate and cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Making the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Now, let’s create the magic sauce that ties everything together.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Blend the Peppers: In a blender, combine the roasted red peppers, sautéed onions, and garlic. Add chicken broth and blend until smooth.
- Simmer and Season: Pour the blended mixture back into the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened and velvety.
Bringing It All Together
With your components ready, it’s time to assemble the dish.
- Cook the Chicken in the Sauce: Place the seared chicken breasts into the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Taste and Adjust: Give the sauce a final taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavors.
Conclusion
Chicken breast with roasted red pepper sauce is a dish that brings excitement to your dinner table without overwhelming your schedule. It’s flavorful, versatile, and easy enough for anyone to master. Plus, the combination of tender chicken and creamy, smoky sauce is downright irresistible.
Whether you’re cooking for your loved ones or treating yourself, this recipe will surely impress. So grab your skillet, and let’s make this dinner unforgettable!