If you’re looking for a flavorful twist on stuffed peppers, this buffalo chicken stuffed peppers recipe is a must-try! Bursting with zesty buffalo sauce, juicy chicken, and colorful bell peppers, this dish is both hearty and health-conscious. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it combines the comforting elements of traditional stuffed peppers with the tangy kick of buffalo sauce. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
– 1 cup cooked rice (or quinoa)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
– 1/2 cup diced celery
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed pepper) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 25g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cooked rice, diced celery, and red onion.
4. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, packing it tightly.
6. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the tops of the peppers.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with shredded turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
Serving and Pairings
These buffalo chicken stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or some crispy baked potatoes. You can also serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. These peppers can also be frozen before baking for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the peppers can make them mushy; aim for tender but firm.
- Don’t skip the foil cover during the first baking phase to keep moisture in.
- Ensure the chicken is thoroughly mixed with the sauce for even flavor.
- Adding too much salt can overpower the dish; taste as you go.
- Using raw chicken instead of cooked will result in undercooked filling.
Helpful Tips
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavors.
- Make a double batch for meal prep; they reheat beautifully.
- Consider adding black beans for added protein and texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it should be cooked thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients. Boiling or baking the chicken first is recommended.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more buffalo sauce or include spicy ingredients like crushed red pepper or jalapeños in the filling.
Can I prepare these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peppers and filling in advance, stuff them, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken stuffed peppers?
These stuffed peppers pair nicely with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even some creamy coleslaw for a complete meal.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste preferences, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Give it a try, and enjoy the spicy goodness in every bite!
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers any color
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cooked rice, diced celery, and red onion.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, packing it tightly.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the tops of the peppers.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
