Food has a magical way of transporting us back in time, invoking memories that linger like the tantalizing aromas wafting through our kitchens. The first time I tasted stuffed bell peppers, I was a wide-eyed child in my grandmother’s kitchen, captivated by the vibrant colors and the promise of flavors hidden beneath the crisp bell pepper skins. The sense of joy and anticipation remains unchanged, and it’s that same excitement that swells in my heart as I prepare these Stuffed Bell Peppers with Buffalo Chicken Filling today. Combining the heat of buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and juicy chicken, these stuffed beauties are a modern twist on a classic dish that will bring everyone around your dinner table.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 35 minutes
- Total Duration: 50 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 400
- Protein: 30 grams per serving
- Carbs: 16 grams per serving
- Fats: 25 grams per serving
- Fiber: 3 grams per serving
- Sugars: 4 grams per serving
- Sodium: 720 mg per serving
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Bell Peppers with Buffalo Chicken Filling
These stuffed bell peppers are an explosion of flavor in every bite! The creamy filling, with its hint of buffalo spice, is perfectly complemented by the tender peppers. They are not just delicious; they’re also visually stunning, making them the perfect dish for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies without anyone batting an eye. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for seconds!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Embarking on the journey to create these stuffed bell peppers is as easy as pie, and the best part? The satisfaction of creating something so scrumptious from scratch. Let’s walk through the process together, step by step.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your stuffed peppers are perfectly cooked through and the cheese is bubbly when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. You want to create a lovely little “bowl” for all that delicious filling. I like to save the tops and chop them finely; they can be added to the filling for extra flavor!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, and green onions. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. This creamy, spicy filling is the star of the show!
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, packing it down lightly. Make sure each pepper is generously filled to the brim.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with a little olive oil. This will help keep them moist while they bake.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the peppers to soften.
Step 7: Add Cheese Topping
Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each pepper, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the peppers are tender. The golden, bubbling cheese is what dreams are made of!
Step 8: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and serve hot. Each bite is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
These stuffed bell peppers make a hearty meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread. A dollop of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing can also make for a delightful addition, balancing the heat of the buffalo sauce.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt there will be many!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. They also freeze well; just wrap them tightly and they’ll last for about a month in the freezer.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- For extra flavor, consider roasting the bell peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them.
- You can customize the filling by adding veggies like diced tomatoes or spinach for added nutrition.
- If you need to streamline the process, using a rotisserie chicken can save time without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feeling creative? Swap out buffalo sauce for barbecue sauce for a smoky twist, or try adding jalapeños for additional heat. Vegetarian options can include substituting shredded chicken with black beans or a mix of quinoa and vegetables!
Reader Questions & Solutions
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What can I use instead of cream cheese?
- You can substitute Greek yogurt or silken tofu as healthier alternatives while still maintaining creaminess.
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Can I use other types of peppers?
- Absolutely! Mini sweet peppers or jalapeños can be fun alternatives, just adjust cooking times accordingly.
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How do I adjust for spice levels?
- If you prefer less heat, use milder buffalo sauce, or mix in some mild cheese to tone it down.
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Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day ahead and refrigerate them, then bake them fresh when needed.
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What if I don’t have shredded chicken?
- You can easily use ground turkey or beef, or even cooked rice for a vegetarian version.
Wrapping Up
Cooking is not just about following instructions; it’s about bringing joy and creativity into your kitchen. These Stuffed Bell Peppers with Buffalo Chicken Filling are more than just a recipe; they’re a way to gather loved ones and create lasting memories. So roll up your sleeves and get started – I promise you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy each flavorful bite, knowing you’ve crafted something truly special in your kitchen today. Happy cooking!
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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Buffalo Chicken Filling
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A delightful and flavorful dish of stuffed bell peppers filled with a creamy buffalo chicken mixture, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheese, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, consider roasting the bell peppers for a few minutes before stuffing. You can also customize the filling with additional vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
