Chicken Stuffed Peppers: 7 Delicious Reasons to Try Today

chicken stuffed peppers

By:

Julia marin

Oh my gosh, let me tell you about chicken stuffed peppers! They’re not just a meal; they’re a vibrant explosion of flavor and color that can brighten up any dinner table. Imagine tender, juicy ground chicken mixed with fresh vegetables and spices, all nestled inside sweet, crunchy bell peppers. It’s a healthy and delicious option that makes you feel good about what you’re eating while still satisfying those comfort food cravings. Trust me, once you try these chicken stuffed peppers, you’ll be making them on repeat. They’re perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner!

chicken stuffed peppers - detail 1

Ingredients List

  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

How to Prepare Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Alright, let’s dive into making these delightful chicken stuffed peppers! This process is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll love the results. Follow my steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your chicken stuffed peppers cook evenly and get that lovely golden finish. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Prepare the Bell Peppers

Now, grab those beautiful bell peppers! Cut the tops off each pepper and carefully remove the seeds. I like to use a small knife to slice around the inside and then just pop them out. You want the peppers to be nice and hollow, ready to hold all that scrumptious filling. Also, don’t toss those tops just yet; you can chop them up and add them to the filling if you like a little extra veggie goodness!

Cook the Chicken Mixture

In a skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add in your 1 pound of ground chicken. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Then, stir in your 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing those flavors to meld together. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!

Fill and Bake

Now comes the fun part! Spoon that flavorful chicken mixture generously into each bell pepper, packing it down a bit to fit it all in. Once they’re filled, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese on top of each pepper. This is where it gets cheesy and delicious! Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish and cover the dish with foil. This helps them steam a little and get perfectly tender while baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Then, take off the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to get that cheese all melty and bubbly. Let them cool slightly before serving, because trust me, they’ll be piping hot and you don’t want to burn your mouth on all that yumminess!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these chicken stuffed peppers! They’re not just delicious; they also pack a healthy punch. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one stuffed pepper:

  • Calories: 350
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients. Depending on the specific brands you use or any extra ingredients you might add, the numbers can vary a bit. But overall, these stuffed peppers are a nutritious option, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Packed with flavor from the tender chicken and fresh veggies.
  • Healthy and nutritious, keeping you satisfied without the guilt.
  • Versatile – you can customize the filling with your favorite ingredients.
  • Colorful presentation that makes any meal feel special.
  • Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!
  • Kid-friendly and a fun way to get everyone eating their veggies.

Tips for Success

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your chicken stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference in your cooking experience.

  • Choose the Right Peppers: Go for firm, fresh bell peppers that are free of blemishes. I love using a mix of colors – it makes the dish pop and adds a fun twist!
  • Don’t Overcook the Chicken: When browning your ground chicken, make sure not to overcook it. You want it to be cooked through but still juicy, as it’ll continue to cook in the oven.
  • Season Generously: Chicken can be a bit bland, so don’t shy away from seasoning your mixture well. Taste as you go! You might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash of your favorite spice to really amp up the flavor.
  • Pack It In: When filling your peppers, be sure to pack the filling in tightly. This helps the peppers hold their shape and ensures every bite is full of flavor!
  • Cover with Foil: Covering the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking is key for steam. This helps the peppers cook evenly and stay tender. Just remember to remove it for the last 10 minutes to get that cheesy topping nice and bubbly!
  • Let Them Rest: After baking, let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes them easier to eat!
  • Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can add different veggies, spices, or even beans for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to keep the ratios balanced so they fit nicely in the peppers.

With these tips, you’re on your way to making the most delicious chicken stuffed peppers that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the cooking process and happy eating!

Variations

Now, let’s get creative with these chicken stuffed peppers! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility, and I just love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

  • Vegetable Medley: Toss in some chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms into the chicken mixture for added nutrition and texture. You can even sneak in some finely diced carrots for a pop of sweetness!
  • Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the filling. It brings a whole new level of excitement to your stuffed peppers!
  • Cheesy Goodness: Swap out the regular shredded cheese for pepper jack or a blend of your favorites. You could even mix in some cream cheese for a creamy twist.
  • Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile tremendously. Try adding chopped cilantro, parsley, or basil to the chicken mixture for a fresh burst of flavor.
  • Quinoa or Couscous: For a different grain option, substitute the rice with cooked quinoa or couscous. It adds a unique texture and packs in even more protein!
  • Tex-Mex Style: Give your stuffed peppers a southwestern flair by incorporating black beans, corn, and taco seasoning into the filling. Top with avocado or a dollop of sour cream before serving!
  • Breakfast Delight: Why not make it a breakfast dish? Use scrambled eggs instead of ground chicken, and mix in some bell pepper and onion for a fun morning treat!

Feel free to combine these ideas or come up with your own unique twists! The key is to have fun and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious chicken stuffed peppers fresh for later! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare treat, trust me!), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain all that flavor.

First, let the stuffed peppers cool completely at room temperature before you store them. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Once cooled, you can place them in an airtight container. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you’re stacking them, so the cheese doesn’t stick!

Store your chicken stuffed peppers in the refrigerator, and they’ll be good for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing their flavor.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, here’s how to reheat them for the best results. If they’re frozen, it’s a good idea to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until they’re heated through. Cover them with foil to keep them moist, and remove the foil for the last few minutes to get the cheese all melty again. You can also reheat them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover them to keep them from drying out. A minute or two should do the trick, but check to ensure they’re hot all the way through!

Enjoy those stuffed peppers just as much the second time around! Happy reheating!

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chicken stuffed peppers

Chicken Stuffed Peppers: 7 Delicious Reasons to Try Today


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Chicken stuffed peppers are a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables and spices, all baked inside vibrant bell peppers.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  4. Add ground chicken and cook until browned.
  5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Fill each pepper with the chicken mixture.
  7. Top with shredded cheese.
  8. Place filled peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  10. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • You can use any color of bell peppers.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like corn or black beans to the filling.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken stuffed peppers, stuffed peppers, healthy dinner

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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