Shredded Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Shredded Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen); 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Shredded Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers, and it's become a go-to dish for our family dinner nights. The burst of flavors from the seasoned chicken and fresh veggies combined with the sweet crunch of bell peppers creates a wonderful balance. Plus, it’s a perfect way to incorporate more vegetables into our meals! I enjoy experimenting with different seasonings to make each batch unique, so you can say it’s a dish that’s never boring. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Created by

Florence Keaton

Last updated on 2026-02-24T06:05:36.329Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of stuffing bell peppers, I was intrigued by the potential for flavor enhancements and nutritional benefits. After some trial and error, I found that using shredded chicken gives the peppers a delightful texture and absorbs the spices beautifully. I like to mix in black beans and corn for added texture and taste, making each bite satisfying and vibrant.

One thing I discovered that elevates this dish is roasting the bell peppers before stuffing them. This simple technique brings out their natural sweetness and makes them tender while preventing them from becoming too soggy. Pair this with a sprinkle of cheese on top for a lovely finish, and you have a winning meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory shredded chicken infused with spices
Colorful presentation that's perfect for any table
Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners easier

Choosing the Right Bell Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, aim for peppers that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin without blemishes. The sweetness of the peppers can vary by color; for example, red, yellow, and orange peppers are typically sweeter than green ones. If you're looking for a slightly earthier flavor, green bell peppers do the trick, while the sweeter varieties add a nice touch to the overall dish. Don't hesitate to mix and match colors for a vibrant presentation!

Another important aspect is ensuring your peppers are the same size for even cooking. This uniformity prevents some from being overcooked while others remain crunchy. You may also opt for mini bell peppers for a fun appetizer version; just adjust the cooking time down to about 20 minutes since they cook faster.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

To amp up the flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to your filling mixture for a richer taste. Simply cook 1 small onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic in a skillet until soft and fragrant before combining them with the other filling ingredients. This addition can elevate the overall depth of your dish, making every bite more savory and delightful.

You can also experiment with varying the spices according to your preference. If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mixture for an extra kick. Similarly, smoked paprika can introduce a subtle smokiness that complements the chicken and peppers beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover stuffed peppers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing. This meal also freezes well; wrap them individually in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months, making them a fantastic option for meal prep and busy nights.

For reheating, simply thaw the peppers overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but do so in short intervals to prevent the filling from becoming too dry. Keeping the moisture sealed helps maintain the delicious texture and flavor!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious stuffed bell peppers:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Shredded Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Lightly brush the outsides with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.

Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper until they are generously filled. Top each pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy your delightful meal!

Let these stuffed peppers cool slightly before serving. They're perfect for meal prep or leftovers!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a gluten-free option.

Serving Suggestions

These Shredded Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers can be served as a standalone meal or paired with a side salad for extra freshness. A simple arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice complements the richness of the peppers wonderfully. You can also place a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top for added creaminess.

For those who prefer a heartier option, serve the stuffed peppers alongside some warm tortillas. This not only enhances the meal with a lovely texture but allows everyone to make their customizable wraps. You could even add some salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who prefer a kick!

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For a Mediterranean twist, substitute the black beans and corn with diced zucchini and feta cheese. You can also add spinach or kale for extra greens. These variations will still work beautifully with the peppers and provide a different flavor experience.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice. Both options offer a lighter profile while retaining the core essence of the dish. Quinoa adds a nutty flavor and extra protein, while cauliflower rice lowers the carb content and provides additional vegetables in your meal.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your stuffed peppers are too watery, consider draining the canned tomatoes further before adding them to the filling. Excess liquid can lead to soggy peppers that don't hold their shape. Alternatively, you can cook the filling mixture slightly in a pan before stuffing to reduce moisture content.

For those who struggle with undercooked peppers, ensure that you remove the foil during the last baking phase. This allows the cheese to get bubbly while ensuring that the peppers soften adequately. If you prefer them softer, you can increase the initial covered baking time to 30 minutes, depending on your oven's heat distribution.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different proteins in this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or even beans can be used as a filling.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with stuffed bell peppers?

A fresh salad or some crusty bread pairs perfectly with this meal!

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and bake them just before serving.