Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and is easy to whip up, then you’ve found it! Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are truly a delight. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. The vibrant colors of the peppers and the deliciously seasoned chicken filling make it not just tasty but also a feast for the eyes.

These stuffed peppers are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions like family gatherings. They’re hearty enough to satisfy everyone while being light and fresh, thanks to those Mediterranean flavors. Trust me, once you try these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers, they will become a go-to in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the fun presentation and delicious flavors, making it a hit at any table.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep these stuffed peppers in advance and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with veggies and lean protein, this dish is both healthy and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These items come together beautifully to create a delightful meal that’s sure to impress.

• ⅔ cup uncooked white rice, or about 2 cups cooked white rice
• 3 bell peppers, halved horizontally and seeded
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound ground chicken breast
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini diced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• ½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, divided, plus more for sprinkling
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• ½ cup water
• lemon wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms into the filling to boost nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, try crumbled goat cheese or even dairy-free alternatives.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture if you like a little heat.

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

First things first—preheat your oven to 350℉. Cooking the rice according to package instructions is key because it will be mixed with all those wonderful flavors later on.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard stems and seeds. Lay them cut side up in a baking dish. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also allows each pepper to hold that delicious stuffing perfectly!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cooking until it’s no longer pink ensures that your filling is both safe and flavorful. Don’t forget to break it up as it cooks!

Step 4: Add Flavorful Veggies

Stir in Italian seasoning, diced red onion, minced garlic, and zucchini into your cooked chicken mixture. Cooking these ingredients for an additional two minutes helps soften them while enhancing their natural flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine your cooked rice with the chicken mixture along with cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, half of the feta cheese (saving some for later), and fresh dill. Mixing everything well ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

Step 6: Stuff Those Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Stuff each bell pepper generously with your flavorful mixture. Sprinkle more feta on top for an extra cheesy goodness. Pour half a cup of water into the baking dish to help steam those peppers as they bake.

Step 7: Bake & Serve

Cover with foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 40 to 45 minutes until everything is heated through and tender. Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over each stuffed pepper—it adds brightness that elevates this dish beautifully! Enjoy them warm alongside tzatziki sauce if you like!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect stuffed peppers is all about technique and little touches that enhance the dish. Here are some tips to elevate your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

• Cook Rice Al Dente: Cooking the rice until it’s just slightly firm allows it to absorb flavors without becoming mushy during baking. This ensures a delightful texture in every bite.

• Mix It Up: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand! Adding diced eggplant or spinach can bring even more nutrition and flavor to your dish.

• Avoid Overstuffing: Be mindful not to pack the filling too tightly into the peppers. This will allow them to steam properly while baking, ensuring even cooking and a tender texture.

• Experiment with Cheese: While feta adds that classic Greek flair, you can try using crumbled goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative for a different taste profile that still complements the dish.

• Let Them Rest: After baking, let the stuffed peppers sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to handle.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Serving your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be as creative as you wish! With vibrant colors and rich flavors, presentation is key to impressing your guests or family.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or mint adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving enhances the citrus notes and freshness of the meal.
• Extra Feta Crumbles: A handful of crumbled feta on top creates an appealing visual contrast and extra creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the stuffed peppers, adding crunch and acidity.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: Packed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and lemon juice, this grain salad complements the Mediterranean flavors while adding healthy grains into your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized make for a beautiful and nutritious side that balances the richness of the stuffed peppers.
• Tzatziki Sauce: A creamy cucumber yogurt sauce (or a dairy-free alternative) adds a cooling element that contrasts beautifully with the warm spices in your stuffed peppers.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal that’s sure to please any crowd! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their wonderful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• To keep them from getting soggy, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your stuffed peppers, prepare them but do not bake them first.
• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• To reheat your stuffed peppers, preheat the oven to 350℉.
• Place the peppers in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for quick meals!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers that might help you out!

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning slightly to match your chosen meat.

How can I make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

You can easily make these stuffed peppers vegetarian by replacing the ground chicken with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, and additional veggies like spinach or mushrooms.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These tasty stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or some pita bread and tzatziki sauce for dipping.

How long does it take to cook Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

From prep to table, this recipe takes about 70 minutes, making it perfect for dinner any night of the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers inspires you to bring some Mediterranean flair into your kitchen! They’re not just easy to make; they’re also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy making this delightful dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Happy cooking!