The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce wafts through the kitchen as I chop vibrant bell peppers in preparation for a delicious dinner. These Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are not just a feast for the eyes but also an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance like they’re at a disco party. Imagine biting into tender chicken mixed with that iconic tangy sauce, all snugly cradled in colorful pepper shells—absolute bliss!
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making stuffed peppers for Sunday dinner. My dad would whip up his secret recipe while we huddled around the kitchen island, debating whether pineapple belongs on pizza. Little did I know those moments would inspire my own version of this dish. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy weeknight dinner, these quirky yet delightful stuffed peppers promise to elevate any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These buffalo chicken stuffed peppers combine ease of preparation with bold flavors that burst in every bite
- The vibrant colors make them visually appealing and perfect for entertaining guests
- Best part?
- You can customize the filling based on your preferences or what’s lurking in your fridge
- Serve them as a hearty main dish or snackable appetizers—either way, they’re sure to impress!
I remember the first time I made these for friends; everyone was raving about how good they were and even asked for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bell Peppers: Choose sturdy, brightly colored peppers for visual appeal and flavor; red or yellow varieties work best.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to; it saves time and adds great flavor.
- Buffalo Sauce: Go for your favorite brand; it makes the filling spicy and irresistible.
- Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to balance out the heat; be sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella melts beautifully over the top; don’t skimp on this!
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and crunch; they also look great as a garnish.
- Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder and salt will enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish large enough to hold all your stuffed peppers snugly together; this helps keep them from tipping over while cooking.
Prepare Your Peppers: Slice the tops off each bell pepper and remove any seeds inside. This step feels oddly therapeutic—like carving mini edible pumpkins.
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and half of the shredded cheese until everything is well blended and creamy. Trust me; this mixture is divine.
Stuff Those Peppers: Generously spoon the filling into each pepper cavity. Don’t be shy—pack it in there like you’re stuffing a turkey!
Add Toppings: Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly over each filled pepper. This creates that golden crust we all crave when cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Bake to Perfection: Place the stuffed peppers upright in your baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes until warm throughout. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to let that cheese bubble up nicely.
Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions as a final touch. Serve warm and watch those peppy little peppers disappear faster than you can say “Buffalo chicken.” Enjoy every spicy bite!
You Must Know
- Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are not just a meal; they’re a flavor explosion
- They combine the comfort of chicken with the crunch of peppers, making every bite exciting
- Plus, they’re perfect for parties or cozy nights in, sure to impress guests and family alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your buffalo chicken filling first; while it simmers, hollow out the peppers for stuffing. This way, everything is hot and ready at the same time for an irresistible dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with fillings; add black beans for extra protein or sprinkle cheese on top before baking. Customize your spice level by swapping out buffalo sauce for milder alternatives if you prefer a gentler kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain their texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Utilize fresh, ripe peppers for maximum flavor and sweetness
- Don’t overstuff your peppers; leave some room for expansion during cooking
- Allow the dish to sit a few minutes before serving; it enhances flavors and helps with stuffing stability
The first time I made buffalo chicken stuffed peppers, my friends raved about them! They were gone within minutes, and I swear I saw one friend practically licking the plate clean—definitely a proud moment in my kitchen!
FAQ
Can I use different types of peppers for stuffing?
Absolutely! While bell peppers are classic, feel free to use poblano or jalapeño peppers for a spicy twist. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold your delicious filling.
How do I ensure my buffalo chicken stays juicy?
To keep your buffalo chicken moist, cook it on low heat and add a splash of chicken broth if needed. This prevents dryness and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
What side dishes pair well with buffalo chicken stuffed peppers?
These stuffed beauties pair well with a crisp green salad or sweet potato fries. You can even serve them alongside some creamy ranch dip for that extra flavor punch everyone loves!
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a spicy, cheesy delight that combines tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and colorful bell peppers for an irresistible dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (red or yellow)
- 2 cups cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese until creamy.
- Stuff each pepper generously with the mixture and top with remaining cheese.
- Place peppers upright in the baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to melt cheese.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper (200g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
