Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Game Day

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, combining the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the wholesome goodness of fresh bell peppers. As a fan of both comfort food and healthy eating, I find this dish to be the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. The origins of buffalo chicken can be traced back to Buffalo, New York, where it was first created in the 1960s. This dish has since evolved into a beloved favorite across the United States, and stuffing it into peppers adds a unique flair that elevates the classic recipe.

People love Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers not only for their vibrant colors and appealing presentation but also for their incredible taste and satisfying texture. The spicy, tangy chicken filling pairs perfectly with the tender, slightly sweet peppers, creating a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color you prefer)
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (optional, for drizzling)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil (for drizzling)

Preparing the Peppers

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed peppers cook evenly and get that nice, tender texture. 2. While the oven is heating up, wash the bell peppers thoroughly under cold water. I like to use a mix of colors for a vibrant presentation, but you can stick to your favorite. 3. Slice the tops off each bell pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. You want to create a nice little bowl for the filling, so be careful not to cut through the bottom. 4. Lightly drizzle the outside of the peppers with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor and give them a nice roasted finish. 5. Place the prepared peppers upright in a baking dish. If they don’t stand up well, you can slice a tiny bit off the bottom to create a flat base, but be careful not to create a hole.

Preparing the Filling

6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken and buffalo sauce. I usually start with 1 cup of buffalo sauce, but feel free to adjust based on how spicy you like it. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated. 7. Next, add the softened cream cheese to the bowl. This will give the filling a creamy texture that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Use a spatula or a fork to mix it in until it’s well combined. 8. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds a delicious cheesy flavor and helps bind everything together. If you want to get a little adventurous, you can also mix in some blue cheese crumbles for an extra kick. 9. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the buffalo sauce can be salty, so adjust accordingly.

Stuffing the Peppers

10. Now it’s time to fill those peppers! Using a spoon, carefully scoop the buffalo chicken mixture into each pepper, packing it in gently but firmly. Make sure to fill them to the top, as the filling will shrink a little while cooking. 11. Once all the peppers are filled, sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top of each one. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as they bake.

Baking the Stuffed Peppers

12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the peppers and ensures they cook through without burning the tops. 13. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The peppers should be tender, and the filling should be heated through. 14. After 25-30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the cheese on top to melt and become bubbly and golden brown. 15. Once they’re done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and allow the flavors to settle.

Assembling and Serving

16. While the peppers are cooling, prepare your garnishes. Chop the green onions and set them aside. If you’re using ranch dressing, you can drizzle it over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. 17. To serve, place each stuffed pepper on a plate. I like to drizzle a little ranch dressing over the top for added flavor and garnish with the chopped green onions. It adds a nice pop of color and freshness. 18. Enjoy your buffalo chicken stuffed peppers while they’re warm! They make a fantastic appetizer or a hearty main dish. You can also pair them with a side salad or some crispy veggies for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

19. If you have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 20. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a couple of minutes or pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine! The combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and creamy cheese all nestled in a vibrant bell pepper creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for shredded turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these stuffed peppers with a side of crunchy celery sticks and a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also make a fantastic appetizer for game day or a fun family dinner. If you want to take it up a notch, try adding some diced jalapeños for an extra kick or topping them with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Whether you stick to the classic buffalo chicken filling or experiment with your favorite ingredients, I’d love to hear about your experience. Don’t forget to share your creations and any variations you come up with! Trust me, once you taste these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you’ll be hooked and eager to make them again and again. Happy cooking! Print