There’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a home-cooked meal, especially when it combines bold flavors and vibrant colors. Imagine stepping into your kitchen and being greeted by the enticing aroma of roasted peppers mingling with zesty buffalo sauce and creamy cheese. That’s the magic of these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!
I discovered this delightful dish on a particularly busy weeknight when takeout was calling my name. But with a few simple ingredients—many of which you might already have on hand—I created a satisfying and healthier alternative that turned out to be a total crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these stuffed peppers are not only visually appealing but also pack a punch of flavor.
Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight routine, impress your guests, or simply enjoy a hearty meal, this recipe hits all the right notes. Let’s dive in and transform your kitchen into a hub of deliciousness!
Why are Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The bold combination of buffalo sauce and creamy cheese makes each bite a flavorful delight.
Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can whip up this dish on even the busiest weeknights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed peppers will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Versatility: Customize with your favorite toppings or vegetables for a personal touch.
Healthier Alternative: Ditch the takeout and enjoy a homemade meal that’s satisfying and better for you!
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Ingredients
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these flavorful stuffed peppers!
For the Peppers
- 3 large bell peppers – any color will do; a mix of red, green, and yellow adds a vibrant touch.
For the Filling
- 4 cups cooked shredded rotisserie chicken – this makes the dish quick; feel free to use leftover cooked chicken, too!
- 1/3 cup cream cheese – it adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce – choose your favorite brand for that spicy kick that defines Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the depth of flavor with a hint of garlicky goodness.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – adds warmth and earthiness to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – essential for balancing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper – adds just the right amount of spice.
- 1 bunch green onions – thinly sliced; they provide a fresh crunch that brightens the dish.
For Garnish
- Ranch dressing – perfect for drizzling over the top, enhancing the buffalo flavor.
- Freshly sliced green onions and chopped cilantro – for an extra pop of freshness and color!
How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
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Preheat: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up while you prepare the peppers. This ensures they bake evenly and become wonderfully tender!
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Prepare Peppers: On a cutting board, cut the bell peppers lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Arrange them skin side down in a large non-stick skillet, sheet pan, or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Mix Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and sliced green onions. Stir until well mixed and creamy.
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Stuff Peppers: Generously spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper half. Make sure to pack it in well for maximum flavor in every bite!
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Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while the peppers soften nicely.
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Bake Uncovered: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. You want the tops to become slightly golden and bubbly—just the way we like it!
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Garnish & Serve: Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with extra green onions and chopped cilantro for that fresh burst of flavor. Serve these beauties immediately for the best experience!
Optional: For an extra kick, add a sprinkling of crumbled blue cheese on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty alternatives and make the dish your own!
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Veggie-Packed: Add chopped spinach or zucchini to the chicken mixture for a nutrition boost. It’s a sneaky way to increase those veggies!
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Spicy Kick: Mix jalapeños or crushed red pepper into the filling for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore. A little goes a long way!
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Cheese Lovers: Swap cream cheese for a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for a melty, gooey filling that’s simply irresistible. You can adjust the cheese blend to suit your palate.
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Low-Carb: Use cauliflower rice instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor—a great option for low-carb diets!
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Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of honey to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor profile. This delightful contrast brings a new flavor dimension to the peppers.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika in the filling for a hint of smoke that beautifully contrasts with the buffalo sauce. It will take your peppers to a whole new level!
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Grain-Free: For a gluten-free option, serve with a side of quinoa salad instead of bread. It complements the stuffed peppers and keeps the meal wholesome.
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Topping Variety: Instead of ranch, try a homemade cilantro-lime crema or a spicy yogurt sauce for a refreshing finish. Your taste buds will thank you for this refreshing upgrade!
What to Serve with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Elevate your meal with complementary dishes that enhance these flavorful stuffed peppers’ bold and creamy goodness.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for mopping up any extra buffalo sauce, its crunchy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Tangy Coleslaw: A refreshing side that adds crunch and brightness, cutting through the richness of the peppers for a well-rounded meal.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutty and filling, this healthy side brings a light texture to your table while complementing the spices in the peppers.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, the smoky char on grilled corn pairs well with the heat of the buffalo sauce, offering a satisfying bite.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: A comforting classic, its rich creaminess works wonderfully alongside the spicy, savory stuffed peppers to satisfy your cravings.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness balances the peppers’ heat, while their crispy edges provide a delightful contrast in texture.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade: Perfect for quenching your thirst, its citrusy notes brighten every bite and enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with these warm, gooey treats, the perfect way to indulge after a spiced feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the filling (shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop the filling into the peppers and bake as directed, allowing about 10-15 extra minutes in the oven if cooking from cold. Whether for a busy weeknight or a gathering, prepping ahead ensures you can serve this flavor-packed dish with minimal effort and just as deliciously!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
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Pepper Selection: Choose any color bell peppers, but avoid overly soft ones. Fresh, firm peppers hold up better during baking and add a delightful crunch.
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Cooking Chicken: For a quick option, shredded rotisserie chicken is ideal. If using raw chicken, ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing to avoid any health issues.
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Creamy Texture: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing. This helps prevent lumps in your stuffing for those creamy Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!
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Spice Levels: Adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred heat level. For milder flavors, consider mixing the sauce with a bit of ranch dressing before adding it to the filling.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on the peppers the last few minutes of baking. A little extra time can make them perfectly tender, but overbaking can lead to mushiness.
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Garnish Variations: Feel free to swap garnishes! Crumbled blue cheese, diced tomatoes, or even jalapeños can elevate your dish and add extra flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen peppers, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until heated thoroughly.
Assembly Tip: For meal prep, you can assemble the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers in advance and freeze them unbaked. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when baking from frozen.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best bell peppers?
Choose bell peppers that are firm and free from dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate ripeness and freshness. Mix different colors for a visually appealing dish; they also tend to have slightly different flavors!
How should I store leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for quick enjoyment, or pop them in the oven until heated through for that freshly baked taste.
Can I freeze these peppers?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers to cool completely. Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen stuffed peppers?
To reheat, first, thaw the stuffed peppers overnight in your fridge. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 25 minutes, or until they are heated thoroughly. This way, you’ll retain that gooey, cheesy goodness!
What if my filling isn’t creamy enough?
If your filling seems a little dry, mix in more cream cheese or a splash of buffalo sauce to achieve that creamy consistency we crave in these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers! Don’t be shy; adjust according to your taste!
Are there any dietary considerations?
Always check with guests regarding allergies! While these peppers are generally safe, you should keep in mind that the buffalo sauce may have gluten or dairy, so choose brands that cater to specific dietary needs if necessary.
Delicious Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while you prepare the peppers.
- Cut the bell peppers lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Arrange skin side down in a baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and sliced green onions. Stir until well mixed.
- Generously spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper half, packing it well.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the tops are golden and bubbly.
- Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with extra green onions and chopped cilantro before serving.