Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a rich, savory, and vibrant dish featuring tender, golden-seared chicken simmered in a creamy roasted red pepper sauce. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that looks elegant and tastes gourmet—perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines bold Mediterranean flavors with creamy comfort. The roasted red pepper sauce is smooth, slightly sweet, and full of depth, pairing beautifully with juicy, pan-seared chicken. It’s quick to make, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and can be served with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce. Best of all, it’s made in one skillet for easy cleanup.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Jarred roasted red peppers, drained
• Garlic, minced
• Onion, diced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Olive oil
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

this recipe

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add roasted red peppers and sauté briefly. Then transfer everything to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
5. Return the sauce to the skillet and stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes to warm through.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili for extra heat.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or cream cheese instead of Parmesan for a tangy twist.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken substitute and coconut milk or cashew cream.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much. Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy, which may separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use homemade roasted red peppers?

Yes! Just roast red bell peppers in the oven or over a flame, peel off the skins, and use them in place of jarred.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely—thighs are juicier and work beautifully in this recipe.

Is the sauce spicy?

Not as written. The roasted red peppers are sweet and mild. You can add spice if desired.

What should I serve this with?

Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese.

What if I don’t have a blender?

You can use a food processor or an immersion blender, or leave the sauce chunky for texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and cheese are gluten-free.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Thaw completely before cooking to ensure even searing and proper doneness.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together with simple ingredients in just one pan. With tender chicken and a creamy, vibrant sauce, it’s perfect for impressing guests or elevating your weeknight dinner routine. Serve it with your favorite sides and watch it become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

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