Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

Name: Ground 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); 1 pound ground chicken; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Daily Meals

I absolutely love preparing Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers for dinner. It’s a dish that not only looks vibrant on the plate but is also packed with flavor. The combination of seasoned ground chicken, aromatic spices, and colorful bell peppers always makes for a stunning presentation. Plus, it’s an easy way to incorporate vegetables into our meal. I enjoy serving these peppers with a sprinkle of cheese on top, which adds a delightful creaminess that makes each bite so satisfying.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:45:35.415Z

When creating my Ground Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers, I discovered that the secret to achieving a moist filling is to add a splash of chicken broth along with the spices. This ensures that the ground chicken remains juicy while cooking. I also found that using a mix of herbs really elevates the flavor, creating a harmonious blend that complements the naturally sweet peppers.

After experimenting with various toppings, I’ve settled on a mix of shredded cheese and fresh herbs to finish the dish. It’s the perfect way to bring everything together, and I love the way the cheese melts while adding a bit of richness to each pepper.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy ground chicken seasoned to perfection
Colorful bell peppers that burst with flavor
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

Choosing the Right Peppers

When selecting bell peppers for this recipe, aim for ones that are firm with a vibrant skin. Avoid any that show signs of wrinkles or soft spots, as these may indicate spoilage. Each color of bell pepper offers a slightly different flavor profile; red tends to be sweeter, while green is more savory. I often choose a mix of colors for both taste and visual appeal, which enhances the overall presentation of the dish.

Cutting the tops off the peppers can be a bit tricky; ensure that you don't cut too deep into the flesh as you want to maintain stability while stuffing. Use a sharp knife for a clean cut, and I recommend a paring knife for precision in removing the seeds and membranes. These steps help create a sturdy vessel for the filling and allow the peppers to bake evenly.

Perfecting the Filling

The foundation of the filling is ground chicken, which should be cooked until it is no longer pink and starts to brown slightly—about 6-8 minutes in the skillet. This not only ensures safety but develops rich flavors. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For additional moisture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth when stirring in the rice, which will help bind the ingredients and infuse extra flavor.

Don't hesitate to customize the spices according to your taste. If you enjoy heat, a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños can give the dish a nice kick. Experimenting with herbs, like dried oregano or Italian seasoning, can also elevate the flavor profile. Make sure to taste the filling before stuffing it, as this is your chance to adjust seasoning to your liking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your stuffed bell peppers delicious:

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your stuffed bell peppers:

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.

Cook the Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Stir in the cooked rice and mix well.

Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in gently. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious stuffed bell peppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce to the filling.

Storage and Reheating

These stuffed bell peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to retain moisture. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 2-3 minutes, but this may cause the peppers to lose some of their texture.

If you’d like to prepare these peppers ahead of time, you can stuff them and keep them in the fridge, covered, for up to a day before baking. This way, dinner can be a breeze on a busy night while still enjoying a homemade meal. Just add about 5 minutes to your baking time to ensure the chicken filling is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffed peppers alongside a simple green salad or with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. I find that a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a lovely tang to each bite. For a heartier option, consider serving them over quinoa or a bed of greens to soak up any extra juices from the peppers.

For a different twist, you can top the peppers with various toppings before serving. Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a tangy flavor contrast, while a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can elevate the spice level. You can also serve them with a side of your favorite salsa or guacamole for added freshness and complexity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian meat alternative.

→ What can I serve with stuffed peppers?

They pair well with a simple side salad or garlic bread.

→ Can I prepare stuffed peppers in advance?

Yes, you can stuff the peppers a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.