Name: Chicken-Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 medium bell peppers (halved lengthwise and seeded); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 pound chicken breast (diced); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 3/4 teaspoon cumin; to taste Salt and pepper; 1 1/4 cups cooked brown rice; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (drained); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; to taste Fresh cilantro (for garnish (optional))

When it comes to weeknight dinners that are both satisfying and easy to prepare, Chicken-Stuffed Peppers are a go-to favorite in my kitchen. These vibrant bell peppers not only look stunning on the dinner table but are also packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender chicken, hearty brown rice, zesty spices, and melted cheese creates a delightful meal that the whole family will love. Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed in any season, making them a staple recipe for any home cook.

Why I Love This Recipe

Chicken-Stuffed Peppers are one of those magical recipes that come together quickly yet feel special enough for a weekend dinner. They are incredibly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The colors are vibrant, and the flavors are rich and comforting, making them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a wholesome meal, these peppers make it easy to serve up something delicious. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep, meaning you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

What’s in the Bowl

4 medium bell peppers halved lengthwise and seeded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound chicken breast diced
2 teaspoons chili powder
3/4 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 1/4 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup canned diced tomatoes drained
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Equipment at a Glance

Chef’s knife: For chopping vegetables and dicing chicken.
Cutting board: To keep your workspace clean while prepping.
Skillet: For sautéing the onion, garlic, and chicken.
Baking dish: To hold the stuffed peppers in the oven.
Aluminum foil: To cover the dish while baking for a tender finish.

Cook Chicken-Stuffed Peppers Like This

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Chicken-Stuffed Peppers will bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Cut the bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish, ready to be filled with your flavorful mixture.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Mix in Rice and Tomatoes

Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the cooked brown rice and drained diced tomatoes. Mix well to combine all the ingredients, allowing them to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into each bell pepper half, packing it in gently. Top each stuffed pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve hot.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

In the summer, serve the Chicken-Stuffed Peppers cold with a refreshing salad on the side.
For a winter twist, add some black beans and corn to the stuffing for a heartier meal.
Top with some avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.
Switch up the cheese by using pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

Things That Go Wrong

Overcooked chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken in the skillet; it should be just cooked through to remain juicy.
Underseasoned filling: Don’t skip the salt and pepper! Taste your filling before stuffing the peppers to ensure it’s flavorful.
Raw peppers: Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil initially to allow the peppers to steam and soften properly.
Cheese burning: If the cheese browns too quickly, cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover Chicken-Stuffed Peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individual stuffed peppers in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

Your Top Questions

Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken breast?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and will cook more quickly. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly before mixing in the rice and tomatoes.

What can I substitute for brown rice?

If you prefer, you can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Both provide a great texture and flavor to the stuffing.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and store them uncooked in the refrigerator. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake!

What side dishes pair well with Chicken-Stuffed Peppers?

These peppers are delicious on their own, but they pair well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of Cajun Chicken Noodle Soup for a heartier meal.

Time to Try It

These Chicken-Stuffed Peppers are an easy, wholesome meal that is sure to impress. With a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that is as delicious as it is visually appealing. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of making this delightful recipe. Whether you are cooking for your family or hosting friends, these stuffed peppers will surely be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!