Spicy Seared Chicken with Sautéed Asparagus & Peppers

A bold, colorful, protein-packed meal with juicy pan-seared chicken and vibrant sautéed vegetables. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is clean, flavorful, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

🔥 Ingredients

For the Spicy Chicken

• 1 large chicken breast (slice after cooking)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp chili powder or cayenne (adjust for heat)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Salt to taste

• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional — brightens flavor)

For the Sautéed Asparagus & Peppers

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed

• ½ red bell pepper, sliced

• ½ green bell pepper, sliced

• ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced

• ½ onion, sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

🍗 Directions

1️⃣ Cook the Spicy Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil with smoked paprika, chili powder/cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

2. Rub the mixture evenly over the entire chicken breast.

3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Add a light drizzle of oil (optional) and place the seasoned chicken in the pan.

5. Sear 5–6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).

6. Turn off the heat, add lemon juice (optional), and let rest 3–5 minutes.

7. Slice into strips or medallions.

2️⃣ Sauté the Asparagus & Peppers

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add sliced onions and bell peppers; sauté about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Add asparagus along with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Cook 6–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.

Tip: If you want softer vegetables, cover the pan for 1–2 minutes to steam.

3️⃣ Assemble Your Plate

• Arrange the sliced spicy chicken next to the sautéed asparagus and peppers.

• Spoon any flavorful pan juices from the chicken over the top.

• Serve immediately.

⏱️ Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

🔢 Approx. Nutrition (per serving)

~480 kcal
(Estimated for chicken, olive oil, and vegetable portion)

🍽️ Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add carbs: Serve with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted sweet potatoes.

• Add heat: Drizzle with chili crunch or extra cayenne.

• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice.

• Meal prep: Stays great in the fridge for 3–4 days.