Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are the perfect combination of tender, spicy, and savory goodness. With the right mix of flavors, these peppers are not just a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings but also a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option, a filling dinner, or a tasty appetizer, buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are the way to go.

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cook the Chicken: Begin by cooking your chicken breasts. You can either bake, boil, or sauté the chicken, depending on your preference.
   • Baking Option: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Boiling Option: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the chicken breasts, and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. You can also add a little seasoning to the water for extra flavor.
   • Sautéing Option: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
2. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, and then shred it using two forks or chop it into small bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

1. Cut and De-seed the Peppers: While the chicken is cooking, cut the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds and ribs inside. This will leave you with a hollowed-out pepper ready to be stuffed. If the peppers are large, you may want to trim the bottom slightly so they stand upright in your baking dish.
2. Blanch the Peppers (Optional): Some people prefer to blanch the peppers before stuffing them. To do this, bring a pot of water to a boil, and drop the peppers in for 2-3 minutes. This step softens them, making them easier to bite into later. If you prefer peppers with more crunch, you can skip this step.

Step 3: Make the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

1. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken to the pan, followed by the buffalo sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated with the sauce. Let the mixture cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the chicken to absorb the flavors.
2. Add Rice and Cheese: Once the chicken is coated in buffalo sauce and fully heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cooked rice (or quinoa, cauliflower rice, or other substitute). Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and, if desired, the crumbled blue cheese. The cheese will melt into the chicken and rice mixture, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

1. Stuff the Peppers: Take each bell pepper and stuff it with the buffalo chicken mixture. Press down gently to ensure the filling stays inside, but don’t overstuff, as this can cause the peppers to burst open during baking.
2. Place the Peppers in the Baking Dish: Arrange the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If you have extra buffalo chicken mixture, you can spoon it around the peppers in the dish. This will help keep the peppers from drying out during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Peppers

1. Cover and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This step ensures the peppers cook through and become tender.
2. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake the peppers for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly and golden. If you want an extra crispy cheese topping, you can broil the peppers for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Serve: Once the peppers are cooked, remove them from the oven. Drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing (optional), and sprinkle with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
2. Enjoy: Serve the buffalo chicken stuffed peppers as a main dish or an appetizer. Pair them with a crisp salad or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

1. Customizing Heat Levels: Adjust the level of spiciness in the buffalo chicken mixture by adding more or less buffalo sauce. If you like it hotter, add some extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, opt for a mild buffalo sauce or even a creamy buffalo sauce.
2. Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese and blue cheese are the go-to choices for buffalo chicken dishes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese can give your stuffed peppers a different flavor profile.
3. Vegetarian Version: To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the chicken with shredded cauliflower or a plant-based chicken substitute. You can also add black beans or lentils for extra protein and texture.
4. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time. Stuff the peppers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for meal prep or a quick dinner on a busy night.
5. Leftovers: If you have leftover buffalo chicken mixture, it can be used as a topping for a salad, mixed with pasta, or eaten with crackers for a quick snack.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Variations

1. Crispy Topping Variation

For an extra crispy texture, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the peppers before baking. You can either use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs. Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter or olive oil and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to create a golden, crunchy topping.

2. Buffalo Chicken Cauliflower Rice Stuffed Peppers

If you want a lighter version, swap out the regular rice for cauliflower rice. This will reduce the carbs and give the dish a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. The cauliflower rice will absorb the buffalo sauce and blend perfectly with the chicken.

3. Greek Yogurt or Cream Cheese

For a creamy twist, you can stir in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese into the buffalo chicken mixture. This will help mellow out the heat while adding richness to the filling.

4. Ground Turkey or Beef

For a variation on the protein, use ground turkey or ground beef instead of shredded chicken. Simply cook the ground meat with the buffalo sauce and other seasonings, and follow the same stuffing and baking process.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are an easy, flavorful, and versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, preparing a quick dinner, or looking for a healthier way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo wings, this recipe will not disappoint.

These peppers are perfect for meal prep, serving as a fun and hearty lunch or dinner throughout the week. And if you’re a fan of buffalo chicken, you can also use the filling as a topping for a salad, a dip for veggies, or even as a filling for wraps or tortillas.

How to Customize Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers is their versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences, flavor preferences, or even the ingredients you have on hand. Let’s dive into more ways you can customize these stuffed peppers:

1. Use Different Peppers for Flavor Variations

Although bell peppers are the most common choice for stuffing, you don’t have to stick with them. There are a variety of peppers you can use, each providing a unique flavor and texture.

• Poblano Peppers: These are a mild, earthy pepper that adds a smoky undertone to the dish. Their larger size makes them perfect for stuffing and they hold up well to the buffalo chicken filling.
• Anaheim Peppers: These are slightly milder than bell peppers but still have a distinct flavor. They’re also larger, making them great for stuffing. Their thinner walls mean they may cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them while baking.
• Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, you can swap bell peppers for jalapeños (either whole or halved and de-seeded). This gives the dish an added spicy kick, perfect for heat-seekers.
• Mini Bell Peppers: If you’re making these peppers as appetizers or finger foods for a party, mini bell peppers are a great option. They’re bite-sized and can be stuffed individually.

2. Add Additional Vegetables for More Nutrition

While the recipe already includes rice and cheese, you can make the dish even more nutritious and colorful by adding some vegetables to the filling.

• Spinach or Kale: These leafy greens are a great addition to your buffalo chicken mixture. Sauté the spinach or kale with the chicken to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These greens will absorb the buffalo sauce, adding another layer of flavor.
• Zucchini or Mushrooms: Chopped zucchini or mushrooms provide moisture to the dish and a mild, savory flavor that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. Simply chop them up and sauté them with the chicken before stuffing the peppers.
• Corn and Black Beans: Adding sweet corn and black beans to the buffalo chicken mix gives the dish a southwestern twist, making it even more filling. This also adds a nice balance to the heat of the buffalo sauce.

3. Make It Dairy-Free

If you need a dairy-free version of Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you can easily modify the recipe:

• Cheese Substitute: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative, such as vegan cheddar or mozzarella, to maintain that creamy texture. Some brands even offer dairy-free blue cheese.
• Creaminess from Cashews: For a creamy, non-dairy option, blend soaked cashews with a bit of water or vegetable broth to create a rich, cashew-based sauce. Stir this into the buffalo chicken mixture for extra creaminess.
• Ranch and Blue Cheese Alternatives: If you love dipping your stuffed peppers in ranch or blue cheese, look for dairy-free versions at the store or make your own using non-dairy yogurt, herbs, and spices.

4. Make It Gluten-Free

If you’re avoiding gluten, this recipe is already a great fit since it doesn’t require any bread crumbs. Just make sure any store-bought buffalo sauce or ranch/blue cheese dressing is gluten-free (some brands use hidden gluten, so it’s always good to check labels).

5. Adding Protein Boosters

Want to pack more protein into your stuffed peppers? You can easily add other protein-rich ingredients to the filling.

• Greek Yogurt: Mixing in some plain Greek yogurt with the buffalo chicken helps enhance the protein content while adding a creamy, tangy flavor. It can also help mellow the spice of the buffalo sauce if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Tofu or Tempeh: For a plant-based version, swap out the chicken for crumbled tofu or tempeh. Both options absorb the buffalo sauce and can create a similar texture to the shredded chicken.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for Meal Prep

One of the best things about these stuffed peppers is how well they lend themselves to meal prepping. You can prepare them ahead of time and store them for an easy meal later in the week. Here’s how you can incorporate them into your meal prep routine:

1. Make in Advance: Prepare the stuffed peppers all the way through the stuffing process, but instead of baking them, cover the peppers and place them in the refrigerator. You can store them for up to 2 days before baking.
2. Freezing: These stuffed peppers freeze well too! After stuffing the peppers, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them for 2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and cook them from frozen for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are the perfect meal prep option since they store well in the fridge. When reheating, they can be quickly heated in the microwave or oven for an easy lunch or dinner.

Pairing Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

While these stuffed peppers are flavorful and hearty on their own, pairing them with complementary sides or drinks can elevate your meal to another level. Here are some ideas:

Sides:

• Crispy Oven-Baked Fries: A classic pairing with buffalo chicken is crispy fries. Try making sweet potato fries or regular potato fries, seasoned with a bit of paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
• Coleslaw: The cool, creamy crunch of coleslaw balances out the heat of the buffalo chicken. You can make a traditional coleslaw with cabbage, carrots, and a mayo-based dressing, or make a lighter version with yogurt or vinegar.
• Cauliflower Buffalo Bites: If you’re serving these stuffed peppers as part of a larger buffalo-themed meal, pair them with roasted cauliflower bites coated in buffalo sauce for a veggie-packed side.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh, simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and spicy stuffed peppers.

Drinks:

• Cold Beer: The spicy heat of the buffalo chicken pairs perfectly with a cold, crisp beer. Consider an IPA, pilsner, or lager to balance out the flavors.
• Iced Tea or Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic option, an iced tea or lemonade can provide a refreshing and slightly sweet contrast to the heat of the peppers.
• Cucumber Mint Water: For a light and refreshing drink, cucumber and mint-infused water can help cleanse your palate and keep things cool.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a fun, flavorful, and satisfying way to enjoy the spicy, tangy taste of buffalo chicken without the mess of traditional wings. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore some of the variations and customization options, you’re sure to end up with a delicious dish.

This recipe is great for meal prep, can be made ahead of time, and serves as a wonderful appetizer for parties or gatherings. The stuffed peppers are easy to assemble, and they bake up beautifully with the buffalo chicken filling, creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of bold flavors.

Yield: 4

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe

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Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are the perfect combination of tender, spicy, and savory goodness. With the right mix of flavors, these peppers are not just a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings but also a versatile meal for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a low-carb option, a filling dinner, or a tasty appetizer, buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are the way to go.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange work best)
• 1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or blue cheese, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Prepare Bell Peppers:
   Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If needed, trim the bottoms slightly to help the peppers stand upright in the baking dish.
   Place the peppers in a baking dish and set aside.
   
3. Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
   In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, ranch dressing, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   Stir until everything is well combined. You can add more buffalo sauce if you prefer a spicier filling.
   
4. Stuff the Peppers:
   Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly into each bell pepper, packing it in tightly.
   
5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender.
   After 25 minutes, remove the foil and top each pepper with a little extra shredded mozzarella. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
   
6. Garnish & Serve:
   Once done, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   Garnish with chopped green onions or additional buffalo sauce if desired.
   Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Notes

Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken to save time, or cook chicken breasts in advance and shred them. Grilled or baked chicken can add a slightly smoky flavor if that's something you enjoy.

Heat Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your liking. If you like things mild, go with a less spicy sauce, or use a combination of buffalo sauce and ranch dressing to cut the heat. For extra spice, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Bell Peppers: You can use any color of bell pepper, though red, yellow, or orange will provide a sweeter flavor. Green bell peppers can work, but they tend to be more bitter.

Additions: You can add extra veggies like diced celery, onions, or spinach to the buffalo chicken mixture for more flavor and texture. If you want a cheesy touch, you can also stir some extra cheese into the filling.

Serving Ideas: These stuffed peppers pair well with a side of crispy fries, a green salad, or even some coleslaw to balance the spicy heat.