Stuffed Peppers with Chicken

Name: Stuffed Peppers with Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Quick Dinner Recipes

I absolutely love making Stuffed Peppers with Chicken! They are not only colorful and vibrant, but the combination of juicy chicken, comforting rice, and zesty spices really excites my taste buds. I enjoy the versatility of this dish; you can add various spices, veggies, or sauces to make it your own. Plus, they make a fantastic meal prep option since they store well in the fridge. Let's dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy a wholesome feast together!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:29:28.725Z

When I first tried my hand at stuffed peppers, I was a bit unsure how they would turn out. I decided to experiment by incorporating some fresh herbs and spices, and let me tell you, it made all the difference! The chicken was tender, and the flavors melded beautifully with the peppers. Cooking the chicken beforehand ensures that everything is evenly cooked and adds depth to the flavor.

One tip that worked wonders for me was roasting the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them, as it brings out their natural sweetness. You'll find them perfectly tender and full of savory goodness, making each bite a delightful experience!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful dish that looks great on any table
Flavorful stuffing made with juicy chicken and spices
Great for meal prep and leftovers

      

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for stuffing, it's essential to choose peppers that are firm and heavy for their size. Look for ones with a glossy skin, which indicates freshness. If possible, opt for a mix of colors like red, yellow, and green; not only does this create a visually appealing dish, but different colors can offer slight variations in flavor. Ensure that the peppers are stable as they will be standing upright in the baking dish.

Another tip is to cut the tops off the peppers cleanly to create an ample opening for stuffing. This not only makes it easier to fill them but also ensures they roast evenly. If a pepper wobbles, you can slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base. Just be careful not to cut through to the seeds. This technique prevents the peppers from tipping during baking.

Customizing Your Filling

The filling is where you can truly make this dish your own. While ground chicken is a fantastic lean protein choice, consider substituting with ground turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option. Adjusting the spices and herbs allows you to personalize the flavor profile. Adding a teaspoon of cumin or chili powder can bring an exciting twist, while fresh herbs like cilantro can brighten the dish. If you're short on rice, cauliflower rice is an excellent low-carb alternative that melds well with the other ingredients.

Don't hesitate to sneak in additional vegetables! Chopped spinach or zucchini can easily be mixed into the filling without overpowering the chicken. For a bit of crunch and extra nutrition, consider adding some diced bell pepper scraps or corn. These additions not only enhance the flavor and texture but also boost the nutrient content, making your stuffed peppers even healthier.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Stuffed peppers are an excellent option for meal prep since they reheat wonderfully. After baking and cooling them, store the peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the texture intact, separate the stuffed peppers with parchment paper or use a compartmentalized container. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave them for 3-5 minutes on high, ensuring even heating.

For longer storage, these stuffed peppers can be frozen. After baking, allow them to cool, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen peppers, you can bake them directly from frozen, increasing the bake time by about 10-15 minutes, or thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, which helps maintain their delicious texture.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients below to make a flavorful stuffed pepper dish!

Stuffed Pepper Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers.

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them in a baking dish and set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large pan, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the chicken filling, pressing down gently to pack it in. If using cheese, sprinkle some on top of each stuffed pepper.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your stuffed peppers warm!

Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling by adding black beans, corn, or your favorite spices. You can also top the stuffed peppers with avocado or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed peppers can be served as a main dish, but they also pair well with various sides. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables complement the peppers beautifully and add freshness to the meal. If you have some avocado or guacamole on hand, these make for a creamy topping that contrasts nicely with the savory filling. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Feel free to experiment with different sauces as well. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a dollop of Greek yogurt can add a rich creaminess that balances the spices perfectly. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a side of tortilla chips or over a bed of lettuce for a delicious take on Mexican flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your stuffed peppers are falling over, it’s often due to undercutting the base. Making sure they have a stable platform prevents them from tipping during baking. If your filling feels too dry, consider adding a small splash of chicken broth or a tablespoon of olive oil for moisture before stuffing the peppers. Conversely, if the filling is too wet, let it simmer a bit longer in the pan to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Another common issue is uneven cooking of the peppers. To ensure they cook evenly, pre-roast larger peppers for around 15 minutes before adding the filling. This softens them slightly and gets the cooking process started, resulting in perfectly tender peppers without overly mushy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and bake according to the instructions.

→ What sides pair well with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers go well with a simple green salad, rice, or even garlic bread.