Stuffed Peppers with Chicken

Name: Stuffed Peppers with Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Stuffed Peppers with Chicken for dinner because they are not only colorful but also packed with flavor. Each bite reveals a delicious mix of seasoned chicken, rice, and vibrant peppers. It’s a dish that comes together quickly and feels like a cozy hug on a plate. As a bonus, these peppers are great for meal prep and can easily be customized to suit my family's tastes. Trust me, they will brighten up your dinner table!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:26:27.694Z

When I first tried making Stuffed Peppers with Chicken, I didn’t expect them to become a family favorite. What makes them so special is the versatility of the filling; I can swap out the chicken for ground turkey or add in different vegetables based on what’s in the fridge.

One tip I have discovered is to roast the peppers before stuffing them. It not only intensifies their sweetness but also gives them a lovely texture that complements the filling beautifully. This simple step transforms the dish into something extraordinary!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that excites the appetite
Flavorful filling that can be easily customized
Nutritious and satisfying meal in a single dish

      

Selecting the Perfect Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for this recipe, aim for large, firm specimens that feel heavy for their size. Colors like red, yellow, or orange not only add to the dish's visual appeal but also tend to be sweeter. If you're going for a milder flavor, consider using green peppers; however, they can introduce a bit more bitterness. Make sure the peppers are shiny and smooth, avoiding any that have wrinkles or soft spots, as these could affect the dish's texture.

Additionally, you can experiment with mini sweet peppers for a fun appetizer version. These smaller peppers can be stuffed and baked in the same manner but will require a shorter cooking time—about 15 minutes—so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Perfecting the Filling

The filling of your stuffed peppers is key to a flavorful dish. Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option, as it absorbs the flavors of spices and vegetables beautifully. If preferred, you can substitute with ground turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just ensure that whatever you choose has enough moisture to create a succulent texture.

For even more depth, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. This not only enhances the flavor but can also brighten the overall taste. Keep an eye on the moisture content while cooking; if the mixture seems too dry after combining the ingredients, a splash of chicken broth can help create a balanced filling.

Serving and Storing Your Stuffed Peppers

Once baked, allow the stuffed peppers to cool slightly before serving; this helps the cheese set and makes them easier to handle. They are excellent served with a simple side salad or crusty bread to mop up any extra filling. If you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra zing before serving.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat the peppers in the oven or microwave. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for an unforgettable meal!

Ingredients for Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup cooked rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

All set! Now let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious meal!

Prepare the Peppers

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

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add a bit of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the filling. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices to suit your taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your stuffed peppers are still firm after baking, it may be due to the type of peppers used or the baking time. Aim for soft, tender peppers with clearly visible blistering on the surface, indicating that they have cooked through. If they are undercooked, simply cover them again with foil and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.

Another common issue is a dry filling. This can occur if the ground chicken is overcooked or if insufficient moisture was added. To fix this in future attempts, ensure to sauté the filling just until the chicken is no longer pink, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Customizing for Dietary Needs

For those following a low-carb diet, consider swapping out the rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa. This substitution keeps the dish filling without loading it with unnecessary carbs. If you're avoiding dairy, you can easily omit the cheese, or use a non-dairy cheese option that melts well. Another great alternative for enhancing flavor without cheese is to top the peppers with a vegan pesto before serving.

Vegetarians can replace the chicken with lentils or black beans, providing protein and fiber while maintaining texture. You can prepare the lentils separately and add them to the mixture, ensuring they are well-seasoned to absorb all the delicious flavors.

Scaling the Recipe

This stuffed pepper recipe is easily scalable for larger gatherings or meal prepping. To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed. For even cooking, use multiple baking dishes and arrange the peppers side by side with a little space to allow even heat circulation.

If you’re cooking for just one or two, halving the recipe is straightforward. Leftover filling can be used in wraps or tacos, while extra peppers can be left unstuffed, drizzled with olive oil, and roasted for a simple and delicious side dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein like lentils work wonderfully.

→ Can I prepare them in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the stuffed peppers a day ahead and bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

Stuffed peppers pair well with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread.

→ Can I freeze leftover stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.