As I sliced into those vibrant bell peppers, the aroma of melting cheese and zesty Buffalo sauce wafted through my kitchen, instantly elevating my spirits. These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are more than just a dish; they’re a satisfying, low-carb, and gluten-free alternative to traditional wings, perfect for anyone craving that spicy kick. With just under an hour from prep to table, they make for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that’s bound to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply enjoy a comforting meal, these stuffed beauties flexibly support various cheese and spice levels for your perfect palate. Are you ready to fill your peppers with irresistible flavor? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Irresistible?
Bold, Spicy Flavor: The robust combination of classic Buffalo sauce and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable taste experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick and Easy: You can have these delicious stuffed peppers on the table in under an hour, perfect for a busy weeknight or unexpected guests.
Customizable Options: Feel free to get creative with cheese types or hot sauce levels, ensuring there’s a perfect version for everyone, just like with my Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Healthy Comfort Food: These low-carb, gluten-free delights are both guilt-free and comforting, satisfying your cravings without derailing your diet.
Vibrant Presentation: Their colorful appearance brightens up any dinner table, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Enjoy pairing with a crisp side salad for an extra nutritional boost!
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Ingredients
• A feast of flavors awaits!
For the Peppers
- Bell Peppers – The ideal base to hold all the delicious filling; a mix of red and green adds color and sweetness.
For the Buffalo Sauce
- Classic Hot Sauce – This will provide that signature Buffalo flavor; feel free to substitute with a milder sauce if needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness that balances the spice; replace with olive oil for a dairy-free twist.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall taste; if you’re out, sea salt or table salt will work just fine.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses a savory depth; fresh garlic can be substituted (1 clove equals about 1/8 teaspoon of powder).
- Onion Powder – Elevates the flavor profile; fresh diced onion could be an alternative.
For the Filling
- Cooked Shredded Chicken – The heart of the dish, offering protein and substance; rotisserie chicken is a great choice for quick prep.
- Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt – A healthier, creamy alternative to sour cream; you can switch it for sour cream or light mayo if preferred.
- Shredded Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully to create that comforting cheese pull; swap with mozzarella for a different spin.
- Crumbled Feta Cheese – Provides a tangy finish on top; blue cheese is an excellent substitute for a stronger flavor.
- Chopped Green Onions – A fresh garnish that adds a crunchy texture and mild onion taste; perfect for a pop of color.
Feel free to start gathering these ingredients, and I promise you will soon be enjoying delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers that excite your dinner routine!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat it with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This will set the stage for baking your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers to tender perfection.
Step 2: Prep the Peppers
Next, slice the bell peppers in half vertically and carefully remove the seeds. Place the pepper halves cut side up in the prepared baking dish. Their vibrant colors not only make for a beautiful presentation but also create a robust, flavorful vessel for the stuffing.
Step 3: Make the Buffalo Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then whisk in the classic hot sauce, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the ingredients are well combined, and let it simmer lightly for about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly as you move to the next step.
Step 4: Combine the Shredded Chicken
Add the cooked shredded chicken to the warm Buffalo sauce in the saucepan. Stir thoroughly until each piece of chicken is well coated in the bubbling sauce. This will infuse your filling with that signature Buffalo flavor, making your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers irresistible.
Step 5: Mix in the Creaminess
Now, add the nonfat plain Greek yogurt and a quarter cup of shredded provolone cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir everything together until you achieve a creamy, well-blended filling. The yogurt adds a tangy richness that balances the heat from the sauce perfectly.
Step 6: Fill the Peppers
Using a spoon, generously fill each halved pepper with the delicious chicken mixture. Make sure to pack it in nicely but avoid overstuffing, as this could lead to spillage during baking. Then, sprinkle the remaining provolone cheese evenly over the top of each filled pepper.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Pour a small amount of water into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam during cooking, which helps soften the peppers. Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden, showcasing your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers.
Step 8: Serve with a Twist
Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven. Top each pepper with crumbled feta or blue cheese, along with freshly chopped green onions for that extra pop of flavor. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting blend of spices and cheese that makes this dish a delight around your dinner table.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
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Don’t Overstuff: Avoid filling the peppers too much; this prevents spillage while baking and ensures they cook evenly.
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Steam for Success: Adding water to the baking dish is crucial for steaming the peppers. This aids in achieving that perfectly tender texture without drying them out.
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Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and delicious option, opt for rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and saves time in meal prep, making your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers even easier to enjoy.
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Check Cheese Doneness: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking. You want it bubbly and golden but not burnt, so start checking a few minutes before the recommended time.
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Creative Variations: Feel free to play with cheese options or hot sauce levels to perfectly customize your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers to your taste preferences.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Variations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity with these customizable options that’ll keep your taste buds dancing!
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. The choice can transform the entire flavor profile!
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute Greek yogurt with cashew cream or non-dairy yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free version. It’s a small change that makes a big difference!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to the filling for a burst of freshness. This simple twist will elevate the dish to new aromatic heights!
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Mini Peppers: Use mini bell peppers for individual servings and adjust your baking time to 20-25 minutes. They make for fun, bite-sized portions—perfect for parties!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the filling for a smoky undertone. This small addition adds depth and complexity, enhancing your taste experience!
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Fruity Addition: Mix in diced pineapple or mango for a sweet and savory combination that balances the heat of the Buffalo sauce. It’s an unexpectedly delightful pairing!
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Increased Heat: For the spice aficionados, drizzle extra hot sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture. Just be prepared for an exhilarating heat level!
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Pairing Ideas: Serve with a refreshing garden salad or crispy tortilla chips for a fun meal. These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers also make a perfect appetizer alongside my One Pan Chicken and Pineapple Tacos for a satisfying flavor adventure!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
The experience of biting into a warm, stuffed pepper is elevated when paired with the perfect accompaniments that complete your meal.
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Crisp Side Salad: A fresh mix of greens and crunchy veggies brings a lightness to balance the spicy, hearty filling of the peppers.
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Garlic Bread: Toasted, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any sauce that might escape from the delicious stuffing, adding extra comfort.
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Celery and Carrot Sticks: These crunchy and refreshing sticks provide a delightful textural contrast while their mild flavor complements the spicy peppers nicely.
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Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing: Drizzle on the side as a dip, this rich and tangy dressing intensifies the Buffalo flavors present in the dish while cooling the heat.
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Zesty Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly seasoned quinoa adds a satisfying grain element to the meal, enhancing both texture and nutritional value.
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Refreshing Lemonade: A glass of chilled lemonade refreshes the palate, its citrus notes cutting through the spiciness of the stuffed peppers perfectly.
Embrace variety in every bite and let your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers shine even brighter with the right pairings!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—combining the shredded chicken with the Buffalo sauce, Greek yogurt, and cheese—up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can halved and seeded bell peppers ahead of time, keeping them wrapped in plastic to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, simply fill the peppers with the prepared mixture, bake them following the original baking instructions, and they’ll be just as delicious! This prep-ahead method saves time and ensures you have a tasty, satisfying dinner option waiting for you, perfect for busy weeknights.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
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Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, prepare unbaked stuffed peppers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.
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Thawing: To thaw, place frozen peppers in the fridge overnight before baking to ensure they heat evenly and maintain texture.
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Reheating: If already baked, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or in the microwave until hot, ensuring the cheese remains melty and delicious.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right bell peppers for my Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Look for bell peppers that are firm and vibrant in color. Avoid any with dark spots or soft spots as they indicate overripeness. A mix of red and green peppers not only provides a burst of colors but adds a delightful sweetness that balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or, for the best texture, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Enjoy them again, while still boasting that comforting, cheesy goodness!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare your stuffed peppers but don’t bake them. Instead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding extra time of about 10-15 minutes to ensure they’re heated thoroughly.
What if my stuffing seems too dry?
If you’re finding the stuffing in your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers is too dry, you can mix in a bit more Greek yogurt or a splash of chicken broth to add moisture before filling the peppers. This will keep the mixture juicy and delicious. Additionally, ensuring you don’t skimp on the sauce when mixing with the chicken can help retain flavor and moisture.
Can pets safely enjoy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
While most parts of the Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are fine for pets, be cautious with ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices, as they can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you want your furry friend to join in, consider creating a separate batch with pet-safe ingredients like plain chicken and vegetables without added spices or seasoning.
How can I customize my Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for dietary needs?
You can easily adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions! For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt and cheese with plant-based alternatives. Use low-sodium or sugar-free hot sauces to cater to those watching their sodium intake, and feel free to swap in different proteins—like ground turkey or tofu—to create a version that perfectly fits your dietary preferences!
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a Spicy, Healthy Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Slice the bell peppers in half vertically and remove the seeds. Place the pepper halves cut side up in the baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then whisk in the classic hot sauce, kosher salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked shredded chicken to the warm Buffalo sauce in the saucepan and stir until well coated.
- Add the Greek yogurt and a quarter cup of shredded provolone cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until creamy and well-blended.
- Fill each pepper with the chicken mixture and sprinkle the remaining provolone cheese over the top.
- Pour a small amount of water into the baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
- Top each pepper with crumbled feta or blue cheese and chopped green onions. Serve hot.
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