Description
This quick and flavorful weeknight meal features tender chicken breast sautéed with vibrant, crunchy bell peppers and a zesty black pepper sauce. Perfectly balanced and completely gluten-free, this dish is a restaurant-quality solution for busy families. It is cooked in a single skillet for easy cleanup and offers customizable heat, making it a reliable favorite for anyone seeking a fast, healthy, and aromatic dinner.
Ingredients
1 1/3 pounds (600 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, divided
1 cup bell peppers, sliced (red and green mix)
1 small red onion, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 garlic cloves, minced
1–2 small green chilies, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 1/4 cups gluten-free low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons reduced-sodium gluten-free tamari
1 tablespoon gluten-free oyster sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon sweet paprika
1 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the sauce and slurry
In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, gluten-free tamari, oyster sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and 1 teaspoon of the black pepper. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water until completely smooth. Set both bowls aside to use later.
Step 2: Sear the chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to help them brown better. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown on the outside. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside, as it will finish cooking in the sauce.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same skillet. Add the sliced bell peppers, red onion, and green chilies. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and simmer
Pour your prepared sauce into the skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Return the chicken and any juices from the plate back to the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Thicken and finish
Give your cornstarch slurry a quick stir to ensure it is smooth. Slowly pour it into the simmering sauce while stirring gently. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce turns glossy and thick enough to coat a spoon. Remove from heat, finish with the remaining black pepper and green onions, and serve.
Pro Tips
- Avoid crowding the skillet when searing the chicken; working in batches ensures even browning.
- Wait to add salt until the very end, as the tamari and broth already provide a savory base.
- Keep the chicken pieces uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly and reach 165°F at the same time.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in an extra tablespoon of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Notes
Adjust the number of green chilies to control the spice level. Use certified gluten-free oyster sauce and tamari to ensure the dish remains safe for gluten-sensitive individuals. Serve over steamed white or brown rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg