Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I’m about to share my super delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe. I absolutely adore this dish because it perfectly blends the flavors of spicy buffalo chicken with the healthy crunch of fresh bell peppers. There’s just something so satisfying about biting into a juicy pepper and tasting that creamy, tangy filling. It instantly transports me back to game days spent with friends where the air is filled with excitement, laughter, and, of course, wings!
One of my favorite things about these stuffed peppers is the versatility they offer. You can whip them up for a casual weeknight dinner, impress your friends at a potluck, or even serve them as a healthy yet indulgent snack while binge-watching your favorite series. Each bite is bursting with flavor, and what’s not to love about a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious?
What’s in Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these stuffed peppers oh-so-delicious!
Bell Peppers: The star of the show! I prefer using colorful bell peppers like red, yellow, or orange as they add a lovely sweetness and brightness to the dish. Not to mention, they’re loaded with vitamins A and C.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, either way works! I usually use rotisserie chicken to save time, but any leftover cooked chicken will do. Toss it in some buffalo sauce, and you’ve got a flavorful filling.
Buffalo Sauce: This is the secret ingredient that gives the dish its kick! Whether you prefer Frank’s RedHot or a homemade version, make sure to choose a sauce that balances heat and flavor to suit your palate.
Cream Cheese: Creamy and decadent, cream cheese adds richness and helps bind everything together. You could also swap it out for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter option!
Cheddar Cheese: Because everything is better with cheese, right? A sprinkle of cheddar on top will get all melty and gooey, giving an extra layer of flavor.
Green Onions: These bright little beauties not only add a pop of color but also a fresh crunch. Plus, they elevate the flavor to a whole new level.
Is Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Good for You?
Well, let’s break it down!
Bell Peppers: These crunchy veggies are low in calories but high in vitamins, making them a fantastic choice for a healthy diet. They’re rich in antioxidants, which can help keep our bodies functioning optimally.
Chicken: A lean protein source, chicken is great for muscle repair and satiety. Plus, using rotisserie means you’re saving yourself time on meal prep!
Buffalo Sauce: This can vary widely in heat levels and ingredients, so if you’re watching sodium intake, choose a brand with less salt or opt for a homemade version.
Cream Cheese: It does add some calories and fat, so if you’re looking for a healthier tweak, using Greek yogurt instead keeps the creaminess while making it more nutritious.
Ingredients List
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 1 cup buffalo sauce, or to taste
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 green onions, sliced
– Optional: celery or carrot sticks for a crunchy side
This recipe serves about 4 people, and trust me, you’ll want to make extras!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your peppers get nice and tender while the filling heats through.
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. If you want, you can also chop up the tops to mix into the filling for added flavor.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir well until everything is fully mixed.
4. Gently fold in the chopped green onions. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add in a bit more buffalo sauce!
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish standing upright.
6. Once all the peppers are filled, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each one.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the peppers are tender.
8. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions if desired!
Spice it Up!
Here are a few ideas to change things up:
– Add some crunchy veggies like diced celery or carrots into the filling for extra texture.
– For a smoky twist, try mixing in some chipotle sauce with the buffalo sauce.
– If you’re not a fan of spice, swap out the buffalo sauce for a barbecue sauce instead!
I really hope you’ll give these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers a try! They are such a comforting meal, and the flavor combination is just spot on. Feel free to play around with the ingredients, too. I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Happy cooking!
