Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe (Easy & Flavorful!)

Is it possible to enjoy a hearty meal while keeping it simple and healthy? You bet! Enter Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, a delightful fusion of flavors that makes for a satisfying dinner without the fuss. With a savory filling of spicy buffalo chicken nestled in crisp bell peppers, this dish not only excites your taste buds but is also an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises mouthwatering results with minimal effort!

Ingredients List

Creating Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a breeze with this organized list of ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color; red, green, yellow, or orange for sweetness)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great as a time-saver)
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (more or less based on your heat preference)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened (substitutes: Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (substitutes: pepper jack for extra spice)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (fresh minced garlic adds more flavor)
• ½ teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Green onions or cilantro for garnish (adds freshness and color)

This flexible ingredients list allows for various substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what’s available in your pantry. You can easily swap out the meat or cheese for a vegetarian protein or lower-fat options without compromising on flavor!

Timing

Preparation and cooking for these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers takes just 50 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average recipe for similar stuffed dishes. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Thanks to the use of pre-cooked chicken and minimal chopping, you’ll have a deliciously stuffed meal in no time flat!

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If your peppers are wobbly, trim the bottoms slightly to create a stable base.

Step 2: Create the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly blended, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

Generously spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down lightly to ensure it’s filled to the brim. If you have leftover filling, don’t hesitate to pile it on top!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over each stuffed pepper. Then, place the peppers upright in a baking dish with a bit of water at the bottom to help steam and soften the peppers as they bake. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Brown and Serve

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let them cool for a few minutes before garnishing with green onions or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers offers a balanced profile suited for a variety of diets:

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal (per pepper, filling only)
• Protein: 30 grams
• Fat: 20 grams (cheese and cream cheese content)
• Carbohydrates: 12 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 2 grams

This recipe is not only rich in protein but also low in carbs, making it an excellent option for anyone seeking a filling yet low-carb meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Several modifications can be made to enhance the health profile of your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers:

• Use Cauliflower Rice: Swap out a portion of the chicken for cauliflower rice to create a lighter, veggie-packed filling.
• Opt for Turkey or Tofu: Ground turkey or crumbled tofu can replace chicken, giving you a leaner or vegetarian option.
• Lower-Fat Cream Cheese: Using low-fat or fat-free cream cheese reduces calories without sacrificing creaminess.
• Fresh Veggies: Add in diced celery, carrots, or spinach to the chicken mixture for extra nutrients and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers shine on their own but can be paired with delightful sides to elevate your meal:

• A Side Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the peppers.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve alongside a small portion of rice or quinoa to create a complete meal.
• Carrot and Celery Sticks: These crunchy veggies mirror the classic buffalo wing experience, paired with a blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be simple, but here are a few pitfalls to keep in mind:

• Overstuffing: While it’s tempting to pack every last bit of filling into the pepper, overstuffing can lead to messy spills. Make sure to leave a little room at the top.
• Uneven Cooking: To guarantee even cooking, ensure your peppers are similar in size and placed upright in the baking dish.
• Skipping the Pre-cook: If using raw chicken, make sure to fully cook it before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure food safety.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (or simply want to meal prep), here’s how to store your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers effectively:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: Stuffed peppers can be frozen before baking—just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers offer a creative option for family dinners or meal prep deliciousness. They’re not only easy to make but also versatile and packed with flavor, making them the perfect solution for weeknight meals. Why not give this recipe a try? We’d love to hear your feedback, so drop a comment below or share your own variations!

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked?
A: Absolutely! Just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients, and you may need to increase the overall baking time.

Q: How spicy are these stuffed peppers?
A: The spice level can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of buffalo sauce. For milder stuffed peppers, use less sauce or opt for a milder brand.

Q: What’s the best way to chop bell peppers?
A: Slice off the top (about an inch), then cut around the insides to remove the core and seeds. The easiest method is to make vertical cuts down the pepper and then crosswise cuts for diced pieces.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the stuffing and cut the peppers in advance, then store them separately in the fridge until ready to bake.

With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re well on your way to crafting the ultimate Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors and watching your loved ones indulge in this scrumptious dish!

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