Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a satisfying low carb meal, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers. These delightful little bundles are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. They’re not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that everyone will love.

What makes this recipe extra special is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, these stuffed peppers are sure to please. Plus, they look beautiful on a dinner plate, making them ideal for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults enjoys these creamy stuffed peppers, making them a hit at the dinner table.
• Make ahead convenience: You can prepare these peppers in advance and simply bake them when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously filling: The combination of chicken and cheese provides a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
• Low carb goodness: Perfect for those watching their carbs while still craving something hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers is as simple as it gets! These are all wholesome items you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Stuffed Peppers

• 3 bell peppers (halved, seeds and ribs removed)
• 4 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded, equivalent to 2 chicken breasts)
• 1/2 cup salsa verde
• 4 oz reduced fat cream cheese (Used: Philadelphia 1/3 Less Fat)
• 4 oz reduced fat cheddar cheese (grated, Used: Cabot Sharp Cheddar 75% Reduced Fat)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 scallions

Variations

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have available or your flavor preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even quinoa for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the cheese: Try pepper jack for an added kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Mix in some chopped spinach or zucchini to boost the nutrition and add more color.
• Experiment with spices: Add some cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that when your stuffed peppers are ready, they can go straight into the oven to bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Halve each bell pepper and carefully remove the seeds and ribs. This step is crucial because it creates space for our delicious filling while ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, cream cheese, salsa verde, and 3 oz of cheddar cheese (saving 1 oz for later). Mixing these ingredients well will create that creamy base that makes these stuffed peppers so irresistible.

Step 4: Fold in the Chicken and Scallions

Next, gently fold in the shredded chicken breast and chopped scallions into your cream mixture. This adds texture and freshness to your filling. Make sure everything is well combined so that every pepper gets an equal share of flavor!

Step 5: Fill the Peppers

Spoon equal amounts of the creamy filling into each halved pepper. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! The more filling, the better!

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar on top of each filled pepper. This will melt beautifully during baking, creating a golden crust that adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

Step 7: Bake Until Tender

Cover your stuffed peppers with tented foil (to keep moisture in) and bake them in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes to an hour. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and oozing with cheesy goodness!

And there you have it—a comforting dish that’s both healthy and satisfying! Enjoy sharing this recipe with friends and family; I promise they’ll love it just as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Making creamy chicken stuffed peppers is a breeze, especially with these helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.
• Mix up the cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, to add new flavors and textures to your filling.
• Don’t overstuff: Fill the pepper halves generously, but avoid overstuffing to ensure they bake evenly without spilling out.
• Add some spice: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Prep ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the peppers and bake when you’re ready for a quick meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These creamy chicken stuffed peppers not only taste amazing but also make for an impressive presentation. Here are some ideas on how to serve them up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright pop of color and flavor that complements the salsa verde.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado slices on top provide a rich texture that balances the dish’s flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon vinaigrette makes a refreshing side that pairs well with the stuffed peppers.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, carrots, or asparagus offer great texture and nutrition alongside your meal.
• Mixed greens: A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing can lighten up your plate while providing extra crunch.
• Cauliflower rice: This low-carb option serves as a fantastic base for serving your stuffed peppers over, soaking up any extra sauce while keeping things healthy.

Enjoy creating your own creamy chicken stuffed peppers! They are sure to impress family and friends alike while being easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! Whip up a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have quick, nutritious meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked stuffed peppers. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, place them directly in a preheated oven at 350F for about 30-40 minutes or until heated through.
• If thawed, they can be reheated in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or in the oven for around 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use other types of chicken for Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! You can use grilled chicken or even leftover rotisserie chicken, as both will add great flavor and save you time.

How do I make Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers spicier?

For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños to the filling or using a spicier salsa verde. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking!

Can I make Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers without cheese?

Yes! You can substitute cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Alternatively, use vegan cheese alternatives if preferred.

What side dishes pair well with Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. You could also serve them with quinoa or brown rice for added carbs if desired.

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Preparation is quick and easy! It takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly an hour to bake, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They are not only delicious but also versatile and great for meal prepping. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or brunch, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. Happy cooking!