Looking for a simple, delicious, and quick dinner idea that packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort? This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is your answer!
With just three core ingredients-chicken cutlets, banana peppers, and butter-plus a touch of olive oil, salt, and pepper, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. Let’s dive into this tangy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who craves bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of tender, juicy chicken cutlets, zesty banana peppers with their tangy brine, and rich, creamy butter creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Minimal Ingredients: With only three main ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple and budget-friendly.
- Quick Prep and Cook Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Bold Flavors: The banana peppers add a tangy, slightly spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of butter.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level or add garnishes to suit your taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is approachable and delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients for the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
To make this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe, you’ll need just a handful of items, most of which you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (or 2 large chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded thin): Chicken cutlets are ideal because they cook quickly and evenly. If using whole breasts, butterflying and pounding them ensures a uniform thickness for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup jarred sliced banana peppers with brine: The banana peppers and their brine are the star of this dish, adding a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that infuses the chicken with zest.
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened: Butter adds richness and helps create a silky, flavorful sauce when combined with the banana pepper brine.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, olive oil adds a subtle depth of flavor and helps achieve a golden crust.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: These seasonings enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and balance the tanginess of the peppers.
That’s it! With just these ingredients, you’re ready to whip up a delicious 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe that will impress your family or guests.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe that’s sure to delight your taste buds:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- If using whole chicken breasts, butterfly them by slicing horizontally through the middle to create two thinner pieces. Place each piece between plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides of the chicken cutlets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
Step 3: Create the Banana Pepper Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the 1/2 cup of jarred sliced banana peppers along with their brine to the same skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan-these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Let the peppers and brine simmer for 1-2 minutes to warm through and reduce slightly.
- Stir in the 4 tablespoons of softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully melted and incorporated. This creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the banana pepper sauce over each piece to coat evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with extra banana peppers or fresh herbs (optional) for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides to create a balanced meal. Here are some ideas to complement the tangy, buttery flavors:
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect match for the rich, tangy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a healthy, colorful side.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
- Bread: Crusty bread or dinner rolls are great for mopping up the extra sauce.
For a low-carb option, serve the chicken with cauliflower rice or a side of sautéed greens. The bold flavors of this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe make it easy to pair with almost anything in your pantry!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
To ensure your 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose High-Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken cutlets or breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Brine: The brine from the jarred banana peppers is key to the dish’s tangy flavor, so be sure to include it in the sauce.
- Control the Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, use mild banana peppers. For more heat, choose hot banana peppers or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Butter Temperature: Use softened butter to ensure it melts smoothly into the sauce. Cold butter may cause the sauce to separate.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken cutlets cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to add garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, or a splash of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Variations of the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
While this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is perfect in its simplicity, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or add variety. Here are a few ideas:
- Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella over the chicken during the final minute of cooking for a cheesy finish.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano to the sauce for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Grilled Version: Instead of searing, grill the chicken cutlets for a smoky flavor, then top with the banana pepper sauce.
These variations allow you to adapt the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe to your taste while keeping the core simplicity intact.
Storing and Reheating the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
If you have leftovers (though this dish is so tasty, that might not happen!), here’s how to store and reheat your 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe:
- Storage: Place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Nutritional Information for the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is a relatively light and protein-packed dish, but the butter and olive oil add some richness. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 25g (saturated fat: 10g)
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: Varies depending on salt and banana pepper brine
- Fiber: 0g
Note that these values are estimates and can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. For a lighter version, reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons or use a butter substitute.
Why Banana Peppers Shine in This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
Banana peppers are the secret weapon in this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe. These mild to moderately spicy peppers add a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the butter and complements the chicken perfectly.
Their brine, which is often vinegar-based, infuses the dish with a zesty kick that elevates it beyond a basic chicken recipe. Whether you choose mild or hot banana peppers, they bring a unique flavor profile that makes this dish unforgettable.
Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken cutlets
- 1/2 cup jarred sliced banana peppers with brine
- 4 tablespoons butter softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- If using whole chicken breasts, butterfly them by slicing horizontally through the middle to create two thinner pieces. Place each piece between plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season both sides of the chicken cutlets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the chicken cutlets to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the 1/2 cup of jarred sliced banana peppers along with their brine to the same skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan-these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Let the peppers and brine simmer for 1-2 minutes to warm through and reduce slightly.
- Stir in the 4 tablespoons of softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully melted and incorporated. This creates a rich, glossy sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.
- Return the chicken cutlets to the skillet, spooning the banana pepper sauce over each piece to coat evenly. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with extra banana peppers or fresh herbs (optional) for a pop of color and flavor.
Video
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions About the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Fresh Banana Peppers Instead of Jarred?
While jarred banana peppers are recommended for their tangy brine, you can use fresh banana peppers. To mimic the brine, add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar to the sauce.
Can I Make This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil, for a dairy-free version.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Cutlets?
You can use chicken thighs or tenderloins, but adjust the cooking time as needed. Thighs may take slightly longer to cook through.
Can I Double the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and cook in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to accommodate all the chicken at once.
How Spicy Is This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe?
The spice level depends on the banana peppers used. Mild banana peppers add a gentle tang, while hot ones bring more heat. Taste the peppers first to gauge their intensity.
Final Thoughts on the 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe
This 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create a flavorful, satisfying meal. With just chicken, banana peppers, and butter, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with tangy, savory goodness in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and bold flavors. Try it tonight and see why this 3 Ingredients Banana Pepper Chicken Recipe is a must-have in your recipe repertoire!
Got a favorite way to customize this dish? Let us know in the comments, and happy cooking!
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So simple and easy to make.
Thanks