Stuffed Peppers with Chicken

Name: Stuffed Peppers with Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Meal Favorites

I love making Stuffed Peppers with Chicken because they are not only vibrant and appetizing but also incredibly versatile. The combination of tender chicken, savory spices, and fresh vegetables tucked inside colorful bell peppers creates a satisfying meal that never disappoints. I often prepare these for family gatherings, and they disappear quickly! It’s those bright pops of flavor that keep everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they are easy to customize for any dietary preferences, making them a go-to dish in my kitchen.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:50:28.915Z

Growing up, stuffed peppers were a staple in my family's dinner repertoire, and I have fond memories of helping my mom in the kitchen. Recently, I decided to experiment with my own variations, incorporating different spices and techniques to give the dish a modern twist. What I found surprising was how the choice of cheese can elevate the flavors—using smoked gouda instead of the traditional mozzarella adds a delicious depth that I absolutely love.

While preparing them, I realized that parboiling the peppers for a few minutes before stuffing helps to achieve that perfect softness without losing their vibrant color. Each bite is a delightful harmony of flavors, and I still can’t get over how appealing these colorful peppers look on the dinner table. It’s truly a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful presentation that attracts everyone
Savory filling bursting with flavor and nutrition
Easily customized for different tastes and dietary needs

Key Ingredient Insights

The choice of peppers is critical for both flavor and presentation. I recommend using a mix of colors—red, yellow, and green—for a more visually appealing dish. Each variety brings its own slight sweetness and texture; red peppers tend to be sweeter while green ones are more robust. If you're sensitive to acidity, opt for yellow or orange peppers, which are milder and can add a lovely sweetness to your meal.

Ground chicken is not just a lean protein option; its mild flavor makes it an excellent canvas for the spices and other ingredients. Make sure to cook it thoroughly and let it brown nicely, as this enhances the dish's depth of flavor. If you want to reduce the fat further, opt for ground turkey instead, keeping in mind that it may yield a drier filling, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.

Techniques for Perfect Stuffed Peppers

When preparing your peppers, make sure to slice the tops off evenly to create a stable base. If you decide to parboil them, aim for just 5 minutes to maintain some crunch; overcooking them will lead to mushy peppers. A steamer basket is a great tool for this process, allowing you to cook them evenly without losing flavor or texture to boiling water.

Creating the filling requires proper layering of flavors. Start by sautéing the onions and garlic until they're translucent—this step releases their sweetness and aromatics, which will infuse the chicken. Ensure that you mix the filling thoroughly so every bite is packed with cheese, rice, and those flavorful tomatoes, creating a harmonious blend that makes these stuffed peppers irresistible.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started on your stuffed peppers:

For the Stuffed Peppers

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup shredded smoked gouda cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting to assemble the peppers!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. If you like, you can lightly parboil them in boiling water for about 5 minutes for improved tenderness.

Make the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the ground chicken, cooking until browned. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, cheese, and seasonings. Mix until everything is well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the chicken mixture, packing it down gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the top to brown slightly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious stuffed peppers warm!

These stuffed peppers can be enjoyed right away or stored in the refrigerator for leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add some chopped jalapeños to the filling or top these stuffed peppers with salsa before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Stuffed peppers can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. You can stuff the peppers and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want to freeze them, prepare the peppers but bake them for just 15 minutes, then cool and freeze them wrapped tightly in foil. When ready to eat, you can bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If you're short on time, a microwave works too—just make sure to cover the peppers with a damp paper towel to steam them while reheating.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These stuffed peppers are delightful served with a fresh green salad. The crispness of the lettuce complements the hearty filling perfectly. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top just before serving. You can also serve them with a simple tomato sauce for dipping, elevating the dish further.

For a different twist, try incorporating various grains like quinoa or farro instead of rice, which infuses additional texture and nutrition. You could enhance the spice blend by adding cumin or chili powder for a Southwestern flair or substitute different types of cheese to experiment with flavor profiles. The filling is truly versatile—experiment with adding black beans for extra protein or even jalapeños if you'd like a kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for the filling?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based meat substitute work great.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after cooking. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair nicely with a simple green salad or some garlic bread.