The vibrant colors of bell peppers sizzling in a hot skillet instantly brighten my kitchen, bringing a smile to my face. It was one evening, after a long day, when I craved something hearty yet quick to prepare. That’s when I discovered the joyful simplicity of Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper. This dish marries succulent chicken with smoky kielbasa, creating a flavor explosion that dances between savory and slightly sweet with every bite.
In just 30 minutes, I found a delightful solution to my weeknight dinner dilemma—a meal that not only satisfies the hunger of my family but also keeps the cooking stress at bay. The combination of tender chicken and colorful veggies tossed in a rich, savory sauce makes this dish not only protein-packed but also a feast for the eyes. You’ll be reaching for your cooking utensils in no time as we whip up this comforting dish together! Let’s dive in and bring some zest back to your weeknight meals.
Why love Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper?
Speedy Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious dinner that your family will devour.
Colorful and Fun: The vibrant hues of bell peppers make this dish not just tasty but visually appealing.
Protein-Packed: With tender chicken and smoky kielbasa, it’s a meal that fuels your body without compromising on flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables or types of sausage for personalized twists!
Minimal Cleanup: One skillet means less mess, letting you enjoy a stress-free cooking experience.
Get inspired with other quick dinner options in this easy weeknight meal collection!
Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper Ingredients
For the Protein
• Boneless skinless chicken breast – provides tender, juicy meat; substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Kielbasa – the star smoky sausage that brings warmth; use pre-cooked for a speedy option.
For the Vegetables
• Bell peppers – add a rainbow of colors and crunch; any variety works wonders!
• Onion – sweetens the dish and adds depth; shallots can be swapped for a milder taste.
• Garlic – brings aromatic goodness; adjust based on your love for garlic!
For the Sauce
• Less-sodium chicken broth – forms the flavorful sauce base; vegetable broth is a lighter alternative.
• Paprika – infuses a lovely smoky kick; smoked paprika elevates the flavor profile even more.
• Garlic powder – boosts taste without the chopping hassle; fresh garlic can be substituted if desired.
• Onion powder – enhances the onion flavor without texture; can be omitted if fresh onion is used.
For Thickening
• Cornstarch – perfect for thickening the sauce and making it glossy; arrowroot powder serves as a gluten-free option.
For Cooking
• Oil (extra virgin olive) – essential for searing everything to golden perfection; avocado oil works great for high heat.
Whip up this Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper in no time! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience for your taste buds!
How to Make Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper
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Prepare Ingredients: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breast and bell peppers into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation in your skillet.
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Sear Kielbasa: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the Kielbasa slices until they are lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes; remove and set aside.
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Cook Chicken: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Cook the seasoned chicken pieces until they’re golden on all sides, approximately 4-5 minutes; then remove and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the remaining oil, sauté the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic until they become tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
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Prepare Sauce: Mix cornstarch with cold chicken broth to create a slurry. Pour it into the skillet along with bouillon, Cajun seasoning, and lemon pepper. Stir until the sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken and Kielbasa to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
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Serve: Dish the Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper over rice, pasta, or grains for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper?
Looking to create a full, delightful meal around this vibrant dish? Here are some fantastic pairing ideas to elevate your dining experience.
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Fluffy Rice: Serve over jasmine or brown rice for a satisfying base that soaks up the savory sauce beautifully. The nutty flavor of brown rice adds a hearty touch.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices of garlic bread offer a warm contrast and are perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce. The crispy texture plays wonderfully against the tender chicken and kielbasa.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad of arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes adds a burst of color and a refreshing crunch to your meal. The acidity from a lemon vinaigrette brightens every bite!
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Steamed Broccoli: Tender, green broccoli provides not just a vibrant splash of color but also a healthy crunch that pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting haven for the juicy chicken, making each forkful delightful. Opt for garlic-infused mash for an extra flavor kick!
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Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned and roasted potatoes offer a hearty companion with a delightful crunch on the outside and a fluffy inside. Their seasoning complements the spices in the skillet dish perfectly.
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Chardonnay: Sip a chilled Chardonnay alongside your meal for a smooth, buttery complement that enhances the smoky notes of the kielbasa. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness nicely.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, providing a creamy and indulgent dessert to contrast the savory ambiance of your dinner. A little sweet treat balances out the meal beautifully.
Storage Tips for Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper
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Room Temperature: This dish is best served warm; avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor, cool the Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper before sealing.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a covered container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help revive moisture. This keeps the chicken and kielbasa tender and delicious!
Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper Variations
Get ready to make this dish your own with flavorful ideas that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and avoid any cream additions for a dairy-free delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to crank up the heat and add an exciting layer of flavor. Embrace the spice!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cornstarch and ensure your sausage is gluten-free for a comforting option that suits everyone.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Stir in additional vegetables like asparagus or spinach for extra nutrition—more colors mean more fun on your plate!
- Herbaceous Flair: Toss in chopped fresh herbs like basil or cilantro at the end for a burst of freshness. The aroma is simply irresistible!
- Smoky Depth: Use andouille sausage instead of kielbasa for a deeper, spicier flavor that hugs every ingredient.
- Citrusy Brightness: Add a splash of lemon or lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish and enhance those savory notes.
- Sweet Twist: Incorporate a handful of diced pineapple for a sweet surprise that perfectly balances the savory flavors. It’s a delightful contrast!
Make Ahead Options
These Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper are ideal for meal prep and busy weeknights! To save time, you can chop the chicken and bell peppers up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can sear the kielbasa and cook the onions beforehand; simply refrigerate them in the same container. When you’re ready to serve, heat everything in a skillet, add the prepared sauce, and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, easy weeknight dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Expert Tips for Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper
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Uniform Cuts: Cut chicken and bell peppers into similar sizes to ensure even cooking and a visually appealing dish.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing; cook in batches to achieve a perfectly golden exterior on both chicken and kielbasa.
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Customize Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. A little more Cajun seasoning can add a nice kick to the Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper.
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Prevent Lumps: Always mix cornstarch with broth before adding it to the pan to prevent any lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and onion for an aromatic boost. The flavors are fresher and more vibrant compared to their powdered counterparts.
Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bell peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for bell peppers that are firm and shiny, with no dark spots or wrinkles. The ideal peppers should feel heavy for their size, indicating they are fresh and juicy. Choose a variety of colors to create a vibrant dish!
How long can I store leftovers of Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper?
Very! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it to retain its flavor and texture for those quick meals later on.
Can I freeze Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper?
Definitely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth for moisture and flavor.
What should I do if my sauce thickens too much?
If your sauce gets too thick, don’t worry, this happens occasionally! Simply add a bit of extra chicken broth or water, stirring gently over medium heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will bring back that glossy, saucy texture without losing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper can be easily altered for various dietary needs. If you’re catering to Halal diets, ensure your kielbasa is Halal-certified. Additionally, feel free to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option or adjust the spices to accommodate allergies. Always check the labels on pre-cooked meats!
Skillet Chicken Kielbasa and Bell Pepper for Busy Weeknights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the boneless skinless chicken breast and bell peppers into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Sear Kielbasa: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the Kielbasa slices until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes; remove and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Cook the seasoned chicken pieces until golden, approximately 4-5 minutes; then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the remaining oil, sauté the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic until tender and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare Sauce: Mix cornstarch with cold chicken broth to create a slurry. Pour it into the skillet with bouillon, Cajun seasoning, and lemon pepper, stirring until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken and Kielbasa to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve: Dish over rice, pasta, or grains. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
