Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Name: Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers
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 (white or brown); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Traditions

I absolutely love making Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a nutritious and flavorful meal. This recipe has become a family favorite because it's so versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes. With the right blend of spices and a rich tomato sauce, these peppers are packed with protein and vegetables. Plus, they make for a beautiful presentation on the dinner table. I enjoy preparing this dish on busy weeknights, knowing that it’s both satisfying and quick to put together!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-24T04:33:36.569Z

When preparing Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers, I discovered the importance of flavor layering. Starting with a sauté of onions and garlic, I found that infusing the base with herbs transforms the dish. It’s amazing how a little patience in those initial steps makes the final result burst with flavor!

Another tip I picked up is to slightly roast the peppers before stuffing them. A brief oven time softens the peppers and adds an extra depth of sweetness, enhancing the entire experience. Our family now enjoys this dish regularly, and it never fails to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying ground chicken filling
Colorful presentation that pleases the eye
Healthier twist with fresh vegetables and spices

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, look for ones that are firm and brightly colored. Choose a variety of colors to add visual appeal to the dish, as they not only taste delicious but also offer a more attractive presentation on your dinner table. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes. Moreover, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, red or yellow peppers are great options, while green peppers will provide a more bitter, earthy taste.

Ensure that the tops of the peppers are cut cleanly to allow easy stuffing and even cooking. Remove all seeds and membranes thoroughly since they can add a bitter taste. A paring knife works well for these tasks, but be cautious with your fingers. Lightly roasting the peppers before stuffing them not only enhances their natural sweetness but also helps them to retain their shape during baking.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The combination of Italian seasoning with garlic and diced tomatoes creates a wonderfully fragrant filling that elevates the ground chicken. You can customize the flavor by adding other ingredients such as crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like basil for a boost of freshness. If you're feeling adventurous, think about including diced zucchini or spinach for extra moisture and nutrition.

The cheese adds a creamy texture to the stuffing and acts as a binding agent. Using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar provides a delightful balance between gooeyness and flavor. For a lighter alternative, consider using low-fat cheese. If you're avoiding dairy altogether, nutritional yeast is a fantastic substitute that can enhance the dish's savory profile.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your stuffed peppers:

Stuffed Peppers Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious stuffed peppers:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your peppers cook evenly.

Prepare the Peppers

Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly roast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, then set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions and garlic until translucent. Add the ground chicken, cooking until it's browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper.

Mix in Rice and Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat, then fold in the cooked rice and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each pepper with the chicken and rice mixture, packing it tightly. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the peppers for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

With these simple steps, you're sure to impress your family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños to the filling. Additionally, feel free to swap out ground chicken for ground turkey or beef based on your preference.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best parts about Ground Chicken Stuffed Peppers is that they can be prepared ahead of time. Once you’ve stuffed the peppers, you can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Make sure to cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. This meal prep strategy is excellent for busy weeknights when time is limited.

If you have leftovers, they store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, and you can bake them straight from the freezer; just add a little extra time to ensure they're heated through.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers can be enjoyed on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the stuffing, while garlic bread or roasted vegetables can make for a more hearty meal. Consider serving them with a side of salsa or a dollop of sour cream for a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the peppers.

For a fun twist, you can serve the stuffed peppers over a bed of quinoa or couscous, which absorbs any excess juices and adds an additional layer of texture. This transforms your meal into a wholesome grain bowl, which can be a delightful presentation for entertaining guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze stuffed peppers?

Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

→ What can I use instead of ground chicken?

Ground turkey or beef can be good substitutes, or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I know when the peppers are done?

The peppers should be tender and the filling should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to include zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.