Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a must-try dish for any occasion. Packed with tender shredded chicken and spicy buffalo sauce, these stuffed peppers burst with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe caters to all! Plus, they are Whole30, paleo, gluten free, dairy free, and low carb/keto friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in under an hour.
• Flavorful & Spicy: The combination of buffalo sauce and seasonings creates an irresistible taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile for Any Diet: These stuffed peppers cater to various dietary needs – Whole30, paleo, gluten free, and more!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of the bell peppers make for an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or baking dish: This is essential for arranging your stuffed peppers as they bake evenly.
• Mixing bowl: Use this for combining all the flavorful ingredients effortlessly.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting the bell peppers accurately without fuss.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements ensure that your buffalo chicken mixture has the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients

For these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers, gather the following:

Bell Peppers

• 3 large bell peppers – any color, cut in half lengthwise and seeds removed

Chicken Filling

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken – a rotisserie chicken will be about the perfect amount of chicken for this recipe
• 1 cup paleo mayonnaise, either homemade or store bought avocado mayo
• 1/2 cup hot sauce or buffalo sauce – I love Frank’s red hot, but a Whole30 compatible buffalo sauce also works

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)

Garnishes

• 1 bunch of green onions, white and light green parts thinly sliced – plus more for garnish
• Whole30 ranch dressing for garnish
• Fresh herbs for garnish

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking for your stuffed peppers.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Arrange cut and de-seeded bell peppers in a lightly greased large skillet or baking dish with the cut side facing up.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Combine pre-cooked shredded chicken, mayonnaise, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, nutritional yeast (if using), and green onions.
2. Mix thoroughly until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more hot sauce or salt if needed.

Step 4: Fill the Peppers

Fill each prepared pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture. Make sure to pack it tightly so each bite is full of flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake stuffed peppers for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake another 20 minutes until peppers are tender and stuffing is bubbling slightly browned.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing, some thinly sliced green onion, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm!

Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways for an enjoyable meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Dairy Free Ranch Dressing: Drizzle some ranch dressing on top for a creamy contrast.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro for added flavor and freshness.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Celery Sticks: Serve with crunchy celery sticks for a refreshing bite.
• Carrot Sticks: Pair with carrot sticks to balance the spiciness of the stuffed peppers.

Offer Extra Sauces

• Extra Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, provide additional hot sauce on the side.
• Guacamole: A scoop of guacamole adds creaminess and richness.

Create a Full Meal

• Side Salad: A simple green salad can complement the spicy flavors while adding freshness.
• Quinoa or Rice: Serve alongside quinoa or rice to make it a hearty meal.

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How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

To ensure your buffalo chicken stuffed peppers turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and ensures moist, flavorful chicken.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of hot sauce based on your heat preference.
• Pack Filling Tightly: Make sure to fill the peppers generously for maximum flavor in every bite.
• Bake Until Tender: Don’t rush the cooking time; tender peppers enhance the overall dish.
• Experiment with Peppers: Try using different colored bell peppers for visual appeal and slight variations in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers can shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These fries add sweetness and crunch, balancing the spicy peppers.
2. Classic Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad enhances the meal with its creamy dressing and crisp romaine.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks provide a perfect vehicle for any leftover ranch dressing.
4. Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A low-carb option that adds bulk without extra calories.
5. Chilled Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad cools down the heat from the stuffed peppers beautifully.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor pairs well and adds texture to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making buffalo chicken stuffed peppers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the seasoning: Overlooking spices can lead to bland flavors. Always season your filling well before stuffing the peppers.
• Not cooking the chicken properly: Using undercooked chicken can result in food safety issues. Ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded before mixing.
• Using too much sauce: Adding excessive buffalo sauce can make the filling too runny. Start with less and add more to taste as needed.
• Neglecting to pack the filling: Failing to pack the mixture tightly can cause it to overflow during cooking. Make sure to fill the peppers generously and compactly.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Not baking for the right time can lead to tough or raw peppers. Keep an eye on them and adjust cooking time as necessary.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store buffalo chicken stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 25-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about buffalo chicken stuffed peppers that might help you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I use other types of peppers?

You can experiment with different types of peppers like jalapeños or poblano for added flavor and spice!

How do I make buffalo chicken stuffed peppers dairy-free?

Use dairy-free ranch dressing and mayonnaise alternatives, like avocado mayo, which fits perfectly with this recipe.

What sides go well with buffalo chicken stuffed peppers?

Pair them with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that complements the spicy flavors.

How long do buffalo chicken stuffed peppers last?

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers last up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I customize my stuffing?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like cheese, black beans, or corn for variety and extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, these stuffed peppers will surely satisfy your cravings. Give them a try today!