Looking for a delicious twist on a classic dish? These buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a must-try! Bursting with flavor, they combine the heat of buffalo sauce with the savory richness of chicken, all nestled inside vibrant bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for gatherings, this recipe will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed pepper) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g fat, 25g protein, and 15g carbohydrates. This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
If you want a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or tofu instead of chicken. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a lighter version. Feel free to swap out the buffalo sauce for a milder sauce if you prefer less heat.
Serving and Pairings
These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or some crispy vegetable sticks. They can also be served with a cooling dip, such as ranch or blue cheese, to balance the heat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. These stuffed peppers can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are properly sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the peppers; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before mixing.
- Adjust the buffalo sauce to your heat preference.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure about chicken doneness.
- Avoid overstuffing the peppers to prevent spills during cooking.
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, roast the bell peppers before stuffing.
- Consider adding chopped celery or carrots to the filling for crunch.
- Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavor.
- Let the stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving for easier handling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is fully cooked before mixing with other ingredients. Thaw it first for better mixing and flavor absorption.
How spicy are these stuffed peppers?
The spice level can be adjusted based on the amount of buffalo sauce used. For milder peppers, reduce the buffalo sauce or choose a mild version.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with buffalo chicken stuffed peppers?
These peppers are great on their own but can also be served with a side salad, chips, or a cooling dip to complement the heat.
Are these peppers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Conclusion
Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a delightful and spicy dish that combines convenience with great taste. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Enjoy this flavorful recipe that brings a bit of heat to your dinner table!
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions 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, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and garlic powder.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each pepper.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Nutrition
