Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and satisfying twist on a classic dish that combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the wholesome goodness of bell peppers. This easy-to-make recipe brings together tender chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and melted cheese, all nestled in vibrant peppers, making it a perfect meal for game days, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Why We Love This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
This recipe stands out for many reasons. It’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the zesty buffalo sauce that adds a kick to the shredded chicken. The combination of colors from the bell peppers not only makes the dish visually appealing but also incorporates a wealth of nutrients. Plus, it’s customizable! You can adjust the spice level by using mild or hot sauce and experiment with different toppings to personalize your dish. It’s also simple to prepare, making it ideal for any home cook, regardless of skill level. You will find that these stuffed peppers are both filling and satisfying without being too heavy.
Ingredients about Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature sets the stage for perfectly cooked stuffed peppers. While the oven heats up, take your bell peppers and carefully slice the tops off. It’s important to remove the seeds and membranes inside the peppers to make enough room for stuffing. You can choose any color of peppers—red, yellow, green, or orange—based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Next, take a mixing bowl and combine the shredded cooked chicken with buffalo hot sauce. The sauce brings that classic buffalo flavor you crave. Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil to keep everything moist during cooking, then sprinkle in salt and pepper to enhance the taste. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Now, fold in half of your shredded cheese into the mixture. This addition not only adds creaminess but also helps the filling bind together.
Time to stuff those peppers! Generously fill each pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture, packing it in well to ensure you get every delicious bite. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Once all the peppers are stuffed, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture, which will help cook the peppers through beautifully.
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully remove the foil—watch out for steam! Bake for another 10 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the cheese melting and beginning to turn golden—this is when your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Once done, take them out and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Serving Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be as casual or as elegant as you like. For a cozy meal, simply plate the stuffed peppers on a vibrant platter, allowing everyone to help themselves. If you want to elevate the experience, drizzle your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing on top for a creamy contrast to the spicy chicken filling. Adding sliced green onions provides not only a pop of color but also freshness that balances the dish’s rich flavors.
Consider pairing the stuffed peppers with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks to add a nice textural contrast. You might also serve some extra buffalo sauce on the side for those who like an additional kick. These stuffed peppers are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, but they also make excellent leftovers.
Expert Tips: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
To achieve the best-dished results, follow these expert tips. First, ensure that your bell peppers are firm and free from blemishes. This will guarantee they maintain their shape and texture during baking. If you’re using leftover chicken, shred it finely to maximize flavor absorption and ease of stuffing.
Feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce to your heat preference; if you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild sauce or mix in a bit of cream cheese for a creamy effect. Additionally, adding a bit more cheese can make your filling even creamier and richer.
When baking, minimize the gaps between your peppers in the baking dish. This helps them cook evenly and stay upright. Lastly, let your stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after baking. This short cooling time allows the filling to settle and makes it easier to serve.
How to Store Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
If you find yourself with leftover Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you’ll be pleased to know they store quite well. Allow the peppers to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze stuffed peppers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Then, you can microwave them for a quick meal or reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
Variation of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
One of the joys of cooking is its versatility, and Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are no exception. You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, consider substituting the chicken with shredded cauliflower or chickpeas mixed with buffalo sauce. This gives you a plant-based option while retaining the overall flavor profile.
You can also play around with the type of cheese. While cheddar and mozzarella are common choices, trying pepper jack adds an extra layer of spice and flavor. If you’re not keen on spicy food, you might opt for cream cheese or even a flavorful Italian blend that complements the dish beautifully.
For an enticing twist, change up the protein! Ground turkey or lean beef can be seasoned similarly to the shredded chicken to create a different flavor experience. Each variation can introduce new taste dynamics while remaining true to the essence of stuffed peppers.
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?
To prepare Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers ahead of time, you can mix the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the oven as directed, adjusting the cooking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Yes, you can freeze Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for up to 3 months. Freeze them in an airtight container after they’ve cooled. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw and reheat as necessary for a quick meal.
How can I adjust the spice level in Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
To adjust the spice level in your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you can choose a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the amount used in the filling. Adding sour cream or cream cheese can also help tone down the heat if you find the sauce too spicy.
What are some good toppings for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Some popular toppings for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers include sliced green onions, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing. You can also sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.
Can I use different types of peppers for stuffing?
Absolutely! While this recipe traditionally uses bell peppers, you can experiment with different varieties like poblano or jalapeño peppers for a unique flavor or spice profile. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the type of pepper you choose.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Stuffing ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce Adjust based on spice preference
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For moisture
- Salt and pepper to taste
Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Divided into two portions
Optional toppings
- to taste sliced green onions
- to taste ranch dressing
- to taste blue cheese dressing
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
Mixing Stuffing
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
- Add olive oil, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
- Fold in half of the shredded cheese.
Stuffing and Baking
- Generously fill each pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden.
Serving
- Let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing drizzled on top, and garnish with sliced green onions.
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