If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and full of gourmet flair, Roasted Red Pepper Chicken is the answer. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal with a creamy, smoky sauce and juicy chicken that melts in your mouth.
Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners, this dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with garlic, herbs, and cream — creating a flavor harmony that’s both rich and refreshing.
Ingredients
Serves 4
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra tenderness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter texture)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken on both sides for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Sauce Base
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped roasted red peppers and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Blend for Smoothness
- Transfer the red pepper mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to create a smooth sauce.
- Pour the sauce back into the skillet.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
- Simmer for another 3 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over buttered pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Add a side of grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad for balance.
- For a low-carb option, pair with cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 chicken breast + sauce) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 36 grams |
| Total Fat | 25 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 12 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 10 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 480 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Roasted red peppers are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair.
- Cream and Parmesan add richness and calcium.
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
Tips for the Best Roasted Red Pepper Chicken
- Use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience — just drain well before blending.
- Adjust spice levels with extra chili flakes or paprika.
- Blend the sauce as smooth or chunky as you prefer.
- For extra depth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth before adding cream.
Variations to Try
- Add spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and broil for a few minutes for a baked version.
- Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian twist.
- Turn it into a pasta sauce by adding cooked linguine directly into the pan.
This Roasted Red Pepper Chicken recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy comfort food and vibrant Mediterranean flavor. Simple enough for weeknight cooking yet elegant enough for entertaining, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Whether served over pasta or rice, every bite delivers smoky sweetness and irresistible creaminess — proof that easy home-cooked meals can taste gourmet.