Get ready to dive into an explosion of flavor with this irresistible Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe. Tender bell peppers filled to the brim with a creamy, spicy buffalo chicken mixture make for a comforting yet vibrant meal that’s perfect any night of the week. The marriage of tangy buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, and melty sharp cheddar creates a filling that’s just bursting with taste, while the fresh green onions on top add a crisp, refreshing finish. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe lies in its simple list of ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From colorful bell peppers to creamy cheeses and spicy buffalo sauce, every ingredient plays a key role in making this dish irresistible.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color): Choose firm, colorful peppers for the perfect edible “bowl” that roasts beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: A great source of hearty protein and the base of the stuffing.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste): Gives that signature spicy kick that buffalo lovers crave.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy richness that balances the heat perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts into the filling for gooey, tangy goodness.
- 2 green onions, finely sliced (for garnish): Adds a fresh, mild bite and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Warming the oven first ensures it reaches the perfect temperature so your stuffed peppers cook evenly and come out tender yet firm enough to hold all that delicious filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Peppers
Slice the tops off your bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes inside. Placing them upright in a baking dish now creates a sturdy vessel ready to be filled with the buffalo chicken stuffing. The peppers will soften while baking but keep their beautiful shape.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar. Stir everything together thoroughly to create a creamy, spicy filling that will coat the chicken perfectly. This mixture delivers the bold flavors that make this dish truly stand out.
Step 4: Stuff the Peppers
Carefully spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each bell pepper, pressing down gently to fill them completely. Packing the filling snugly ensures every bite is loaded with that delicious buffalo creaminess and melted cheese goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The peppers will soften just enough to be tender but still hold their shape, and the cheese inside will melt into a bubbly, irresistible layer of savory delight.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the tops with finely sliced green onions for a fresh crunch and bright pop of color. Serve these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers warm for the best flavor and comfort in every bite.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are classic here for a reason, adding a subtle sharpness that lifts the rich filling. For an extra touch, try drizzling a little ranch or blue cheese dressing on top to mellow the spice, or sprinkle chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.
Side Dishes
These stuffed peppers are hearty enough to be a meal on their own but pair beautifully with crisp baby greens or a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For a more indulgent option, creamy mashed potatoes or garlic bread are fantastic companions that soak up any extra buffalo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at your next dinner? Serve these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe finds on a rustic wooden platter with a scattering of extra cheese and green onions. You can also cut them in half after baking to showcase the creamy filling or even turn the leftover filling into sliders for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover stuffed peppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap each stuffed pepper individually in foil or freezer-safe wrap, then place them in a sealed container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To warm leftovers or thawed frozen peppers, bake them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted again. You can also microwave them covered but the oven method best preserves the pepper’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of peppers for this recipe?
Absolutely! While bell peppers are ideal for their size and sweetness, you can experiment with poblano or even mini sweet peppers for smaller servings. Just adjust cooking time accordingly depending on the pepper’s thickness.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe?
The level of spice primarily depends on how much buffalo sauce you use. If you prefer mild flavors, scale it back; for more heat, feel free to add extra buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the chicken with cooked shredded jackfruit or diced tofu. Add extra seasoning and perhaps a bit more cheese or cream cheese to maintain the creamy texture and bold flavors.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the filling?
Cream cheese plays a crucial role in adding creaminess and mellowing the buffalo sauce’s heat, making the filling decadent and well-balanced. However, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or ricotta if preferred.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a few hours in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
Final Thoughts
You really cannot go wrong with this Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy wrapped inside a colorful pepper that bakes up beautifully every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this warm and inviting dish is sure to please all palates and have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and watch it become your new comfort food obsession!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a flavorful and spicy twist on classic stuffed peppers, combining shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce with creamy cheese and baked until tender. This easy-to-make recipe serves as a delicious, protein-packed meal perfect for lunch or dinner, featuring a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and melted cheddar goodness.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced (for garnish)
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed peppers.
- Prepare the peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes. Place the hollowed peppers upright in a baking dish to keep them stable during baking.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, and half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Stuff the peppers: Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each prepared pepper, pressing down gently to fill them evenly and compactly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the stuffed peppers for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese inside has melted.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the peppers from the oven, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the sliced green onions on top, and serve warm for best flavor.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce according to your taste preference.
- Use any color bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Leftover stuffed peppers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- If you want extra cheese topping, sprinkle some more cheddar before baking.
