I tried this chicken and peppers in white sauce recipe out last weekend, and I have to say, it was a delightful surprise! The combination of juicy chicken, sweet peppers, and the creamy white sauce creates a dish that’s so flavorful and comforting.
And can you believe the sauce is made with mayonnaise and chicken broth? I was skeptical at first, but trust me, the flavors come together perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, this dish is a winner. I can’t wait for you to try it too!
For a more elegant dinner option, consider pairing it with seared scallops with smoky sweet corn purée as a starter or side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this luscious dish to life, along with some handy tips to make it even better.
- Chicken breast or drumsticks: You can use boneless chunks for faster cooking or drumsticks and thighs for a juicier bite. Skin-on pieces also add extra flavor.
- Green pepper and red pepper: These add a sweet and slightly tangy crunch. Slice them into strips for even cooking.
- Onion: A medium-sized onion, sliced, offers that caramelized sweetness to balance the dish.
- Garlic: Use about a heaping tablespoon of minced garlic for a robust aroma. Fresh garlic works wonders compared to jarred!
- Chicken broth: About ¾ cup works as the base of the sauce, adding a hint of savory flavor.
- Mayonnaise: The surprising star of this recipe! Half a cup gives the sauce its creamy texture.
- Penne pasta: Half a box works well to soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Olive oil and butter: Use 1 tablespoon of each for rich, golden-brown sautéing.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate every ingredient.
Note: This recipe serves 4.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or silken tofu blended with a bit of olive oil.
- Low-Carb: Skip the pasta and use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice as a base.
- Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli or mushrooms for an even heartier meal.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in red chili flakes or add diced jalapeños for heat.
For a pasta twist, you might love this roasted red pepper rigatoni recipe that’s packed with flavor.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long it will take from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Get these tools ready before you start:
- Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken, vegetables, and later combining everything.
- Medium mixing bowl: To whisk the chicken broth and mayonnaise together.
- Pot for boiling pasta: To cook the penne to al dente.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For easy stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Baking dish (optional): Needed if using drumsticks/thighs, as they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
How to Make Chicken and Peppers in White Sauce
This recipe is straightforward and incredibly satisfying to make. Follow these simple steps for the best results!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken with salt and pepper. If using chicken breast chunks, sauté them in a large skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Cook until golden-brown and fully cooked. If you’re using drumsticks or thighs, brown them in the same way, but then transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes or until done.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
With the same skillet (don’t clean it; the leftover bits are flavor gold!), add your sliced peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside; you’re almost ready to bring everything together.
Step 4: Mix the Sauce
Whisk the chicken broth and mayonnaise in a mixing bowl. It might look thin at first, but don’t worry, it’ll thicken up once heated.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the skillet, along with the sautéed veggies and pasta. Pour the white sauce over everything, stirring to coat all the ingredients evenly. Heat over medium heat for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the chicken and peppers.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Plate up your Chicken and Peppers in White Sauce while it’s warm and creamy. The aroma alone will have everyone running to the table!
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some personal tricks I used to make this dish even better:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning chicken; cook in batches if needed.
- Grate some fresh Parmesan over the dish for added richness.
- For a lemony twist, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the sauce right before serving.
- To avoid mushy pasta, undercook it slightly as it will absorb some sauce in the skillet.
How to Serve Chicken and Peppers in White Sauce
This dish is versatile and can be served in many ways:
- Presentation: Serve on individual plates or family-style in the skillet. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Pairings: Garlic bread or a lightly dressed green salad complements this creamy dish beautifully.
- Drink Ideas: Pair it with a crisp white wine or a refreshing lemonade for a complete experience.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutrients per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: Around 30g
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 35g
- Fat: Around 20g
How to Store Food Properly?
This dish is great for meal prep! Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened.
If you’re a fan of hearty meals, you can also enjoy similar dinner recipes that are just as satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a guaranteed hit for several reasons:
- Simple Ingredients: Everything is easy to find, and chances are you already have most of it in your kitchen.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
- Versatile: Can be adapted for dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy, rich white sauce is downright irresistible.
- One-Pan Cleanup: Fewer dishes to wash means happier evenings!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta with ridges, like rigatoni or fusilli, helps hold the sauce perfectly.
Is the mayonnaise flavor very noticeable?
Not at all! Once combined, the mayo simply adds creaminess without overpowering the dish.
Can this be made vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If needed, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water to the sauce while it heats.
Can I make this spicy?
Certainly! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or top with red chili flakes before serving.