Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers: The Ultimate Spicy Cheesy Recipe
Introduction to Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
If you’re looking for a delightful blend of flavors that packs a punch, Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are the perfect dish for you! These vibrant, sweet baby bell peppers are stuffed with a rich and creamy buffalo chicken mixture, creating a mouthwatering appetizer or main dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a family-friendly meal, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to please.
A Personal Story Behind My Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Journey
My love affair with stuffed peppers began at a family gathering where my aunt introduced her famous stuffed bell peppers. Inspired by her recipe, I decided to take it a step further by adding a buffalo chicken twist. The flavors melded perfectly, and the dish quickly became a staple at our family dinners. Now, I’m excited to share this version with you, which has earned rave reviews from friends and family alike!
What Makes This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe Special?
What sets this recipe apart is not just the unique flavor combination but also the ease of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. The sweetness of the baby bell peppers balances the spicy kick of the buffalo sauce, while the creamy texture of the cream cheese brings it all together. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize the toppings to your liking, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone.
The Full Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 15-17 sweet baby bell peppers (2 pounds), halved with stems, seeds, and membranes removed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 3/4 cup Frank’s Red Hot original sauce, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
- 1 1/2 pounds cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 8 ounces shredded cheese (mix of sharp cheddar and Mozzarella)
- 3 chopped green onions for garnish
- Optional garnishes: chopped jalapeño, crumbled blue cheese, or more shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the rack in the middle position.
- Wash and dry the baby bell peppers. Halve them and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes. This step is crucial for ensuring your peppers are ready to be stuffed!
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, combine the chicken stock, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the pan, whisking until smooth. Incorporate the fresh chopped parsley for added flavor.
- Fold in the shredded chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce. This step is where the magic happens!
- Mix in the shredded cheese and continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes until melted. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Grease a baking sheet and arrange the halved peppers cut side up. This will help them roast evenly.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, fill each pepper with the chicken mixture, pressing it in gently. Don’t worry about overfilling; this just adds to the deliciousness!
- Bake the stuffed peppers for 15 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Once done, garnish with parsley, green onions, and any other desired toppings like jalapeños or blue cheese. Serve immediately for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
These buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are delightful on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad or some crispy baked fries for a complete meal. For a fun twist, try adding other ingredients to the stuffing, such as black beans or corn for extra texture. If you’re looking for a milder option, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a different sauce altogether!
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze stuffed peppers?
Absolutely! Freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as directed when ready to enjoy.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 15 count sweet baby bell peppers halved with stems, seeds, and membranes removed
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
- 0.75 cup Frank's Red Hot original sauce plus more for garnish
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 8 ounces cream cheese cubed
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley plus more for garnish
- 1.5 pounds cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 8 ounces shredded cheese mix of sharp cheddar and Mozzarella
- 3 count chopped green onions for garnish
- optional garnishes chopped jalapeño, crumbled blue cheese, or more shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the rack in the middle position.
- Wash and dry the baby bell peppers. Halve them and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes.
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, combine the chicken stock, Frank's Red Hot sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the pan, whisking until smooth. Incorporate the fresh chopped parsley for added flavor.
- Fold in the shredded chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated with the sauce.
- Mix in the shredded cheese and continue cooking for about 3-5 minutes until melted.
- Grease a baking sheet and arrange the halved peppers cut side up.
- Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, fill each pepper with the chicken mixture, pressing it in gently.
- Bake the stuffed peppers for 15 minutes. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Once done, garnish with parsley, green onions, and any other desired toppings like jalapeños or blue cheese. Serve immediately for the best experience!