Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes
I absolutely love these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers because they combine two of my favorite things: the bold flavor of buffalo chicken and the satisfying crunch of peppers. The heat of the buffalo sauce contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, and each bite feels like a fiesta in my mouth. Whenever I want a meal that's both vibrant and comforting, I turn to this recipe. It’s quick to prepare and always impresses my friends and family!
When I first attempted these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, I was skeptical about how well the flavors would meld. I must say, the result was nothing short of a culinary revelation! The key is to balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce with the creaminess of the cheese, ensuring neither overpowers the other.
As I perfected this recipe, I discovered that pre-cooking the chicken in a slow cooker helps to infuse it with flavor, making the stuffing delightfully tender. Additionally, I recommend using bell peppers for the best texture, as they add both sweetness and crunch to every bite.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
- Bold buffalo flavor paired with creamy cheese
- A perfect balance of spice and sweetness
- Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables
Choosing the Right Peppers
When making Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, the choice of bell pepper is essential. I recommend using large, firm peppers to ensure they hold their shape while baking. Sweet red, orange, or yellow peppers add a pleasant sweetness that complements the spiciness of the buffalo sauce. Green peppers can also work, but they are more bitter, so adjust seasonings accordingly if using them.
Make sure to wash the peppers thoroughly before cutting them. After slicing the tops off, if you find the cavity is not deep enough, you can gently scoop out a bit more flesh to add extra filling. This not only maximizes the flavor in each bite but also allows for a more impressive presentation when serving.
Elevating Flavor with Cheese
The combination of cheddar cheese and cream cheese in this recipe adds depth and creaminess to the filling. Cream cheese helps bind the ingredients together while providing a smooth texture that balances the heat from the buffalo sauce. If you're looking for a slightly different flavor, consider mixing in some gouda or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
As the stuffed peppers bake, the cheese will melt and start to bubble, creating that enticing golden crust. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time; you want the cheese to be just melted and slightly golden, which usually takes about 10 minutes uncovered.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious stuffed peppers:
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Make sure all your ingredients are fresh and ready to go!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a spicy and satisfying meal:
Prepare the Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, and green onions, blending until everything is evenly coated.
Stuff the Peppers
Fill each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture, pressing down to pack it in tightly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Let the peppers cool for a few minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy your spicy buffalo chicken stuffed peppers!
These make a great meal option or appetizer for gatherings!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, feel free to mix in some ranch seasoning with the chicken filling. You can also substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken if desired.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, these stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This reheating method helps retain the texture of the peppers and ensures the filling remains moist. Microwaving is quicker but may result in a softer texture.
For longer storage, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze them for up to two months. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as described above. This make-ahead option can save time on busy weeknights while still giving you that vibrant taste.
Customizing Your Stuffed Peppers
Feel free to customize the filling based on your preferences. You can add black beans, corn, or even quinoa for added nutrition and flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with lentils, chickpeas, or a mix of your favorite vegetables sautéed until soft. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to keep the flavor profile in line with the recipe.
Make these stuffed peppers a bit sweeter by drizzling a honey or maple syrup glaze over the top before baking. This additional layer of flavor can complement the spicy buffalo sauce beautifully, creating a balance that excites your palate. Experiment with different sauces as well; for a milder version, BBQ sauce can be a delicious alternative.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken for the filling?
Yes, just ensure it's thawed and cooked through before shredding.
→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
→ Can these peppers be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and stuff the peppers, then wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add diced celery or carrots for extra crunch and flavor.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
I absolutely love these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers because they combine two of my favorite things: the bold flavor of buffalo chicken and the satisfying crunch of peppers. The heat of the buffalo sauce contrasts perfectly with the creaminess of the cheese, and each bite feels like a fiesta in my mouth. Whenever I want a meal that's both vibrant and comforting, I turn to this recipe. It’s quick to prepare and always impresses my friends and family!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Drizzle with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Add salt, pepper, and green onions, blending until everything is evenly coated.
Fill each bell pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture, pressing down to pack it in tightly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the peppers cool for a few minutes, then serve hot. Enjoy your spicy buffalo chicken stuffed peppers!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, feel free to mix in some ranch seasoning with the chicken filling. You can also substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g