Get ready to fall in love with Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat, a vibrant, rustic skillet dinner that brings the warmth of an Italian kitchen right to your table. Imagine juicy chicken thighs mingling with spicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and aromatics—all simmered together in a tangy tomato and balsamic sauce. It’s the sort of dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas and practically begs to be shared with loved ones. Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or a seasoned pro, this crowd-pleasing recipe will become a weeknight favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat lies in its simple, robust ingredients. Each one works together to build layers of flavor and color, making every bite memorable and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a handy tip for each item!
- Olive oil: Don’t skimp here! It’s the foundation for browning and infuses everything with that signature Mediterranean richness.
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and flavorful as they cook, though you can swap in breasts if you prefer.
- Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled): Adds heartiness and a kick of seasoning; spicy or mild, your choice!
- Red bell pepper: For a sweet punch and a pop of color; slice them into strips to soak up the sauce.
- Yellow bell pepper: Balances the red with mild, sunny flavor and extra crunch.
- Small onion: Sliced thin, the onion brings sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan.
- Garlic cloves (minced): The unmistakable hit of garlic rounds out the Italian seasoning beautifully.
- Dried oregano: Earthy, classic, and essential for that big Italian flavor.
- Dried basil: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat—start with a pinch and adjust as you wish.
- Salt: Don’t forget it—this amplifies all the other flavors.
- Black pepper: A finishing touch for a subtle spicy kick.
- Chicken broth: Lends body to the sauce and keeps everything moist and tender.
- Crushed tomatoes: These bring the sauce together, offering just the right sweetness and texture.
- Balsamic vinegar: The secret ingredient! It adds a tangy depth that brightens all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: For a fresh finishing touch, adding color and a herbal zing at the table.
How to Make Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start this Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat recipe by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lay in your chicken thighs once the oil shimmers—you want to hear that satisfying sizzle. Brown them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until they develop that golden, appetizing crust. This step isn’t just for show; it locks in the juices and builds a delicious base for the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside for now. Add the sliced or crumbled Italian sausage to the same pan—no need to clean it! Let the sausage cook for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for caramelization and those flavorful browned bits (fond) on the bottom of the pan, which infuse the whole dish with meaty depth.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers plus the onion. Stir frequently for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the veggies start to soften up but still have some color and snap. They’ll soak up all the wonderful flavors from the sausage fat, making them sweet and savory at the same time.
Step 4: Add Seasonings and Aromatics
Now bring in your minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, and (if you like things spicy) a pinch of red pepper flakes. Add the salt and black pepper as well. Stir everything together until the garlic is fragrant—about a minute. This is when your kitchen will start smelling absolutely irresistible!
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and those magical tablespoons of balsamic vinegar. This mix brings together sweetness, acidity, and savory goodness. Stir and scrape the bottom of the pan to bring up any browned bits from earlier—those are pure flavor gold.
Step 6: Simmer and Finish
Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet among the sausage and vegetables, making sure everything is bathed in sauce. Lower the heat, cover, and let it all gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken finishes cooking, the peppers melt into the sauce, and the meat mingles with all those Mediterranean flavors. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving—it adds freshness and a brilliant green flourish.
How to Serve Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat
Garnishes
I love adding a shower of freshly chopped parsley just before bringing the skillet to the table. You can also grate a little Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino over the top if you want to lean into that Italian vibe. If you enjoy a little heat, a final pinch of red pepper flakes gives the dish an extra spark without overpowering the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat is a natural partner for simple sides that let the sauce shine. Pile it onto a bed of creamy polenta, toss it with al dente pasta, or serve it alongside pillowy mashed potatoes. And of course, don’t forget some thick slices of crusty bread—perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, serve this dish family style right from the skillet, topped with colorful fresh herbs. You can also shred the chicken and sausage, then stuff the mixture into hoagie rolls for an Italian-inspired sandwich. Looking for a lighter approach? Spoon the Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat over a tangle of zucchini noodles or heap it onto a bed of peppery arugula.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat keeps beautifully for up to three days in the refrigerator. Let everything cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors deepen as they mingle, making leftovers even more delicious!
Freezing
This dish is a freezer superstar. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Label with the date and be sure to freeze the sauce and meat together for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat in a covered skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed. You can also microwave individual portions in short bursts, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. Just be careful not to overcook, so the chicken stays tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just fine, though I recommend keeping an eye on cooking time—they may cook a little faster. Either way, the dish remains just as comforting and delicious.
What kind of sausage should I use?
Choose your favorite Italian sausage—spicy, mild, or even a chicken variety if you want to keep things lean. The sausage’s flavor infuses the Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat, so pick one that you love!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it’s totally gluten-free! If you pair it with gluten-free pasta, polenta, or potatoes, it remains safe for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat is the perfect make-ahead main! Prepare it up to two days in advance and reheat gently. The flavors seem to get even bolder after a night in the fridge.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s as spicy as you want it to be! The red pepper flakes are optional, so it can be completely mild or have a gentle kick. Taste as you go and adjust to your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish like Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat—it’s vibrant, deeply flavorful, and effortless enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and let it become a cozy favorite at your table, too!
Print
Savory Italian Chicken with Peppers and Meat Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This savory Italian chicken dish with peppers and sausage is a comforting one-pan meal that is bursting with flavors of Italy. Juicy chicken thighs, Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic herbs come together in a rich tomato and balsamic sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
Italian Sausage:
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled)
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Liquid and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook Chicken: Brown chicken thighs for 4–5 minutes per side; set aside.
- Cook Sausage: Cook sausage until browned; about 5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Add peppers, onion, and cook until softened.
- Season: Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add Liquid: Pour in chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and balsamic vinegar; combine.
- Simmer: Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Serve over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread.
- You can use chicken breasts or spicy sausage as alternatives.
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