Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice

Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the aromatic flavors of oregano, garlic, and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where oregano is a popular herb used in many dishes. The combination of chicken, sweet peppers, and rice creates a well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) chicken pieces, skin removed
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground pepper
cooking spray
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 lemon, sliced
1 tomato, chopped
0.25 cup onion, chopped
0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried and crushed)
0.25 cup dry white wine
0.75 cup low sodium chicken broth
1 medium sweet green pepper, cut into strips
1 medium sweet red pepper, cut into strips
cooked white rice

How to prepare

Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper.
Lightly coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray.
Cook the chicken over medium heat until it turns light brown (about 15 minutes), turning it once.
Reduce the heat.
Sprinkle garlic, lemon, half of the tomato, onion, parsley, and oregano over the chicken pieces in the skillet.
Add wine and broth.
Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the remaining tomato and sweet peppers, cover, and continue to simmer for 7–10 minutes or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Serve with cooked rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Add olives or capers for a briny flavor.
Use different colored bell peppers for a more colorful presentation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavors.

- Cooking the chicken in a nonstick skillet with cooking spray helps to reduce the amount of oil needed.

- Adding the sweet peppers towards the end of cooking ensures that they retain their crispness and vibrant color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the chicken in wine and broth helps to infuse the flavors into the meat.

- Covering the skillet while cooking helps to retain moisture and ensure the chicken stays tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use dried oregano instead of fresh if needed.

- Substitute white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store in the refrigerator. Cook the rice just before serving to ensure it is fresh and fluffy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice in a large serving dish garnished with fresh herbs. Arrange the sweet pepper strips on top for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 32g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 4g

Fats

Total Fat: 7g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 32g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

Vitamin C: 120%

Calcium: 6%

Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for a family meal. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins, this recipe is a healthy and satisfying option for any occasion. Enjoy the aromatic flavors of oregano and garlic combined with tender chicken and sweet peppers for a delicious meal that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen. Maria was a master in the culinary arts, and I always loved learning new recipes from her.

As we chatted and sipped on cups of fragrant herbal tea, Maria suddenly exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe for dinner tonight! It's a simple yet delicious dish of chicken oregano with sweet peppers and rice. You have to try it!"

Excited by her enthusiasm, I eagerly watched as Maria gathered the ingredients and began to cook. She explained each step with such passion and precision that I couldn't wait to give it a try myself.

First, she marinated the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. The aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely divine. Then, she sautéed the chicken in a hot skillet until it was crispy and golden brown.

Next, Maria added a colorful array of sweet bell peppers – red, yellow, and green – to the skillet, along with some sliced onions. The sizzle of the vegetables as they cooked was music to my ears.

As the peppers softened and released their natural sweetness, Maria deglazed the pan with a splash of white wine, scraping up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. The fragrance of the wine mingling with the herbs and spices was intoxicating.

Finally, Maria stirred in some cooked rice and fresh chopped parsley, allowing the flavors to meld together into a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. She plated the dish with a flourish, garnishing it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

With a twinkle in her eye, Maria handed me a fork and said, "Bon appétit, my dear! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do."

I took my first bite, and my taste buds were immediately transported to a culinary paradise. The tender chicken, the sweet and tangy peppers, the fluffy rice – everything was simply perfect. I savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented chef.

From that moment on, Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Maria and the joy we shared in creating something delicious together.

Over the years, I added my own twist to the recipe – a pinch of smoked paprika here, a squeeze of lemon juice there. I experimented with different types of rice, varied the mix of peppers, and even tried substituting chicken thighs with boneless, skinless breasts.

But no matter how I tweaked the recipe, the essence of Maria's original creation remained. It was a testament to the power of good food and friendship, a reminder that some things are meant to be shared and savored with loved ones.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting scents of garlic, oregano, and sweet peppers, I can't help but smile. The memories of that warm summer evening with Maria will always hold a special place in my heart – just like the recipe for Chicken Oregano with Sweet Peppers and Rice holds a special place in my cookbook.