Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Tasty and Easy Recipe

Craving a spicy twist on dinner? Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are here to satisfy! They are simple to make and packed with bold flavors. With just a few ingredients like cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese, you’ll create a dish that's both easy and delicious. Join me as I walk you through this tasty recipe that will make your taste buds dance!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 4 large bell peppers (red, orange, or yellow)

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce

- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

Toppings and Garnishes

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

- Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Seasoning and Optional Ingredients

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

I love using sweet bell peppers as the base for these stuffed peppers. You can pick red, orange, or yellow peppers for a vibrant look. Each pepper brings a sweet flavor that pairs well with the spicy buffalo chicken.

For the filling, you need cooked chicken. I usually shred rotisserie chicken for convenience. It adds great taste and saves time. The buffalo sauce gives the dish that signature heat. You can adjust the amount based on your spice level, or even use a mild sauce if you prefer less heat.

The cream cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the spice. It's the secret to making the filling rich and smooth. I also add garlic powder for extra flavor and a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance all the tastes.

For toppings, shredded cheddar cheese is a must. It melts beautifully and adds a cheesy goodness on top. Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch. Finish with cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. All these ingredients come together to create a tasty dish that will impress everyone.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking.

2. Take your bell peppers and cut the tops off. Remove the seeds inside. This creates a cup for your filling.

Mixing the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken.

2. Add 1/2 cup of buffalo sauce and 1/2 cup of cream cheese.

3. Toss in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

5. Mix well until everything is combined.

Baking Instructions

1. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture. Pack it in firmly for a full flavor.

2. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. You can add a little water to the dish. This helps steam the peppers.

3. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each pepper.

4. Cover the baking dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.

5. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Look for tender peppers and bubbly cheese.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

To ensure the peppers are tender, bake them with a little water in the dish. This steam helps soften the peppers while cooking. I recommend covering them with foil for the first 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil to let the cheese brown and the peppers finish cooking.

Adjusting spice levels is simple with buffalo sauce. If you like it mild, use less sauce in the filling. You can also mix in a little cream cheese to balance the heat. For those who love spice, add more buffalo sauce for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers pair well with a few side dishes. Try serving them with a crisp salad, crunchy veggies, or creamy ranch dip. You could also offer tortilla chips for added crunch. These options complement the spicy flavors of the peppers nicely.

Presentation Tips

For garnishing, sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top of each stuffed pepper. This adds a pop of color and freshness. To plate, set the peppers upright on a serving platter. You can also drizzle a little extra buffalo sauce around the base. This enhances the look and makes it more inviting.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch up the protein in your stuffed peppers. Try turkey for a leaner option. Ground beef also works well. If you prefer plant-based, use shredded jackfruit or tofu. These choices keep the dish tasty and filling.

For sauces, buffalo sauce is classic, but BBQ sauce adds a sweet twist. Teriyaki sauce brings a savory flavor that can surprise your taste buds. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, check the sauce label. Many buffalo sauces are gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free cream cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish.

For low-carb variations, swap the peppers for zucchini boats. Or, skip the peppers and serve the filling over a salad. These swaps keep the flavors while reducing carbs.

Flavor Combinations

To make your dish unique, add different veggies. Chopped spinach or mushrooms blend well with the chicken. You can also toss in diced jalapeños for heat.

Spices like cumin or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor. Try adding herbs like oregano or thyme for an earthy taste. Mixing in these extras makes your stuffed peppers exciting and fresh.

Storage Info

Refrigeration

After cooking, let the stuffed peppers cool. Place them in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to four days. This keeps them fresh and tasty. If you have extra filling, store it in a separate container. This way, it stays fresh too.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze stuffed peppers, first, let them cool completely. Wrap each pepper in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for about three months. Label the bag with the date so you know when to use them.

Reheating Tips

When you’re ready to eat, remove the peppers from the fridge or freezer. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the fridge. To reheat, use an oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes. This keeps the peppers moist and the cheese melty. If using a microwave, heat for about 2-3 minutes on high. Check if they are hot all the way through. Enjoy your meal!

FAQs

How long do stuffed peppers last in the refrigerator?

Stuffed peppers can last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty for your next meal. If you have leftovers, eat them within this time for the best flavor.

Can I make buffalo chicken stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these stuffed peppers ahead of time! Prepare them, but do not bake them yet. Store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you are ready to eat, just pop them in the oven. This saves time and makes dinner easy.

What can I serve with buffalo chicken stuffed peppers?

You can serve many sides with these stuffed peppers. Some great options include:

- A fresh garden salad

- Crunchy tortilla chips with salsa

- Creamy coleslaw

These sides balance the spicy flavor of the stuffed peppers nicely.

Is it possible to make these vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version! Swap the chicken for cooked quinoa or black beans. Use a good buffalo sauce that suits your taste. This way, you keep the flavor while making it meat-free. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian stuffed peppers!

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are easy and fun to make. We covered the main ingredients, like chicken and cheese, plus tasty toppings. The steps to prepare and bake them are simple. I shared tips on how to make these peppers just right. You can even change up the flavors to suit your taste.

Whether for a weeknight dinner or a party, these stuffed peppers are sure to please. Enjoy your cooking adventure!