Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Looking for a flavorful, easy, and wholesome dinner that’s both filling and nutritious? These Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are the perfect solution! Juicy bell peppers are stuffed with tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, cheese, and a medley of spices, then baked until they’re tender and the cheese is bubbly. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chicken or rice and is versatile enough for meal prep, family dinners, or even a healthy option for a party spread.

This recipe is simple yet loaded with flavor, and you can customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you like your stuffed peppers spicy or mild, vegetarian or loaded with protein, this dish will satisfy your cravings.

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What Are Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers? 🌶️🍗

Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are a delicious, well-balanced dish where hollowed-out bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, rice, cheese, and seasonings. The peppers are baked in the oven until tender, and the filling becomes warm and bubbly. The dish is easy to customize, making it a perfect family-friendly meal that can be adjusted based on what you have on hand or personal tastes. It’s also a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!

Ingredients List for Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers 🌶️🍚🍗

For the Stuffed Peppers:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color: red, yellow, orange, or green)
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (use rotisserie or leftover chicken)
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (or quinoa for a healthier option)
• 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce (or salsa for a Mexican twist)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican blend)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• ½ onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Topping (Optional):

• Extra shredded cheese (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
• Hot sauce or salsa (for a spicy kick)

Substitutions and Variations 🧑‍🍳

Here are a few ways to customize these Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers based on your dietary preferences and available ingredients:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the shredded chicken with black beans, quinoa, or crumbled tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
• Low-Carb/Keto Version: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice to make a lower-carb version of this dish.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether and top with guacamole or avocado slices for creaminess.
• Mexican-Style Stuffed Peppers: Use salsa instead of marinara sauce, and add a teaspoon of taco seasoning for a flavorful Mexican twist.
• Different Grains: Substitute the rice with quinoa, farro, or couscous for added texture and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions 🔪

Follow these simple steps to make your very own Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers:

1. Prepare the Peppers:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Wash the bell peppers and cut off the tops. Remove the seeds and membranes inside.
• Lightly coat the peppers with olive oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and place them in a baking dish. Set aside.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Prepare the Filling:

• To the skillet with the onions and garlic, add the shredded chicken, cooked rice, marinara or tomato sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
• Allow the mixture to cook for about 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Once heated through, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and combined.

4. Stuff the Peppers:

• Spoon the chicken and rice filling into each of the prepared bell peppers, pressing the mixture down to fill them completely. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.

5. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:

• Pour about ¼ cup of water or broth into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the peppers and keep them moist while baking.
• Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to let the cheese on top get bubbly and golden brown.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Once baked, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

How to Make Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers: A Step-by-Step Guide 🌶️🍗🍚

Here’s a simple guide to ensure your stuffed peppers come out perfect every time:

1. Pre-Cook the Peppers: For softer peppers, you can pre-cook the bell peppers by placing them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before stuffing and baking.
2. Even Filling: Make sure to evenly distribute the chicken and rice mixture into the peppers, pressing it down so the filling is packed well.
3. Foil to Keep Moist: Covering the peppers with foil while they bake helps trap steam, making the peppers soft and tender. Removing the foil at the end gives the cheese that delicious golden finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 😱

• Not Cooking the Peppers Long Enough: If your peppers are too hard or crunchy after baking, it’s likely they needed more time in the oven. Check for tenderness before serving.
• Overfilling the Peppers: Don’t overstuff the peppers or they may overflow while baking. Press the filling down but leave a little space at the top.
• Not Seasoning the Filling: Make sure to season the chicken and rice mixture well with spices, salt, and pepper. The filling is the heart of the dish, so don’t skimp on the flavors!

Serving and Presentation Tips 🎉

These Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are vibrant, colorful, and easy to serve! Here are some ideas to make them look even more appealing on your table:

How to Serve Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers:

• Serve each pepper whole on a plate with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.
• Pair with a light side salad or steamed veggies to balance out the meal.
• For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or tortilla chips for scooping up any extra filling.

Presentation Ideas for Stuffed Peppers:

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for a pop of color.
• Serve the peppers in a colorful casserole dish to match the bright colors of the peppers.
• Add a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce on top for an extra kick.

Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers Recipe Tips 🌶️🍗

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble these stuffed peppers ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish with foil and pop them in the oven when you're ready to bake.
• Double the Recipe: These stuffed peppers are great for meal prep. Make a double batch and freeze the extras for a quick dinner on a busy night.
• Use Leftovers: This is a fantastic recipe to use up leftover chicken or rice. You can also substitute any leftover grains like quinoa or farro for a fun twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes! You can freeze stuffed peppers before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the peppers, place them in a freezer-safe dish, and wrap them tightly. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow the peppers to cool completely before wrapping and freezing. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer ground chicken, simply brown the ground chicken in a skillet with the onions and garlic before adding the rice and seasonings.

How long do stuffed peppers last in the fridge?

Stuffed peppers will last for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What kind of rice should I use?

You can use any type of cooked rice you like—white, brown, or even wild rice. Quinoa or farro also work well if you want to add more texture and fiber to the dish.

Conclusion

These Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The tender bell peppers are filled with a satisfying mixture of shredded chicken, rice, and cheese, making this dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining. With endless customization options, you can make this recipe your own and adapt it to fit your family’s taste. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to make a delicious meal everyone will love! Happy cooking! 🌶️🍗🍚

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