Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Chicken stuffed peppers quickly became my favorite dinner idea after a day when I needed to use up leftover chicken and rice and I remember scooping that savory cheesy mixture into colorful bell peppers and watching them bubble up beautifully in the oven and when I took that first bite with the tender pepper juicy chicken and melty cheese it felt like pure comfort and ever since then they’ve been my go-to dish when I want something satisfying colorful and surprisingly easy to make.

I love how chicken stuffed peppers combine tender bell peppers with a hearty filling of chicken rice sauce and cheese all baked together in one neat little package and I enjoy that they’re so fun to customize and make ahead and I especially love that they look so impressive on the table while being so simple to prepare making them perfect for both weeknight meals and dinner guests.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Bell peppers – The sturdy edible “bowls” that hold the flavorful filling.
• Cooked shredded chicken – Makes the filling hearty and packed with protein.
• Cooked rice – Adds bulk and comforting texture to the stuffing.
• Tomato sauce – Brings moisture and a rich savory base.
• Onion – Adds a sweet savory depth to the filling.
• Garlic – Brings warm aromatic flavor throughout.
• Shredded cheese – Melts on top for a gooey delicious finish.
• Olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics and adds richness.
• Fresh parsley – For garnish and a bright pop of color.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

Tools You’ll Need

• Knife and cutting board – For prepping the peppers and chopping ingredients.
• Large skillet – To cook and combine the filling.
• Mixing bowl – For stirring everything together evenly.
• Baking dish – To hold the stuffed peppers upright as they bake.
• Spoon – To fill each pepper neatly and generously.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F so it’s nice and hot when the peppers are ready to go in.

Step 2: Prepare the peppers

I cut the tops off the bell peppers and scoop out the seeds and membranes so they’re ready to be filled.

Step 3: Make the filling

In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and soft. Then, I stir in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper and mix until everything is heated through and well combined.

Step 4: Fill the peppers

I spoon the chicken mixture generously into each hollowed pepper, pressing it down lightly so they’re full.

Step 5: Top with cheese

I sprinkle shredded cheese on top of each pepper for that irresistible melty finish.

Step 6: Bake

I arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 25 minutes. Then, I uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

I remove from the oven and top with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips

If you want a spicier kick, I sometimes mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter, lower-carb option. For extra flavor, I love adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the finished peppers.

Ways to Serve

I love serving chicken stuffed peppers on their own since they’re already a complete meal. They also go great with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted veggies. Leftovers reheat wonderfully and make a perfect meal prep lunch for busy days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and fill them ahead, then bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely. Assemble and freeze before baking or freeze leftovers in airtight containers.

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Of course! Just cook and season it before mixing into the filling.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these chicken stuffed peppers a try! They’re colorful, hearty, and so easy to make — a perfect way to enjoy a comforting meal any night of the week. Let me know if you make them and what fun variations you try!

Happy Cooking!

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