Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursts with flavor, you’re in the right place! These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a delightful combination of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs wrapped up in a vibrant bell pepper. This recipe has become a family favorite—it’s perfect for busy weeknights or any gathering with friends. I love how easy it is to prepare and how everyone can customize their peppers just the way they like them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: Every bite is filled with Mediterranean goodness that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores.
• Healthy & Nutritious: With wholesome ingredients like chicken, veggies, and feta cheese, this dish offers a great balance of protein and nutrients.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these colorful stuffed peppers. They’re fun to eat and even more fun to make together!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the stuffing in advance and stuff the peppers just before baking. Perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything you need for this delicious dish:

For the Stuffing

• ⅔ cup uncooked white rice, or about 2 cups cooked white rice
• 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

For the Peppers

• 3 bell peppers, halved horizontally and seeded
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup water
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is their flexibility! You can easily modify them to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the stuffing mixture.
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your favorite, try using goat cheese or a vegan cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to give your stuffing a bit of heat!

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Cook Rice

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it heats up, cook the rice according to package instructions. This step ensures that you have fluffy rice ready to mix into your stuffing.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard stems, remove ribs and seeds from peppers, and lay them cut side up in a 9×13 baking dish. This allows each pepper to hold its shape while being stuffed and ensures they get lovely roasted edges.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Don’t forget to drain any excess liquid; we want our stuffing firm and flavorful!

Step 4: Add Veggies & Seasoning

Stir in Italian seasoning, diced red onion, garlic, and zucchini. Cook for an additional two minutes while stirring occasionally. Sautéing these ingredients brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your filling.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your cooked rice with the chicken mixture, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, half of the feta cheese, and fresh dill. Stir well until everything is nicely blended together—this is where all those delicious flavors come together!

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Now comes the fun part! Stuff each pepper generously with your filling mixture. Sprinkle more feta on top for an extra burst of flavor. Pour ½ cup water into the baking dish—that’ll help steam the peppers as they bake—then cover with foil.

Step 7: Bake & Serve

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until they’re tender. Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the top for that bright finish! Enjoy these stuffed beauties warm with tzatziki sauce on the side if you like.

I hope you enjoy making these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They are truly a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be a delightful experience, especially when you have some handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavors significantly. They keep your dish vibrant and full of life, making every bite a celebration of Mediterranean goodness.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook until just no longer pink to keep it tender and juicy. Overcooked chicken can become dry, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the stuffed peppers.

• Customize the stuffing: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or grains! This recipe is versatile, so you can swap in quinoa, brown rice, or even chickpeas for a unique twist that suits your preferences.

• Cover while baking: Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking time helps steam the peppers, ensuring they become tender without burning. It locks in moisture for a deliciously succulent result.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes them easier to serve!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Presentation is key when it comes to serving this colorful dish! Here are some ideas on how to elevate your dining experience with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or extra dill on top just before serving for a refreshing burst of flavor and color.
• Lemon zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness and enhances the citrus notes from the lemon wedges served alongside.
• Additional feta: Crumble extra feta cheese over the top for an added creaminess that pairs perfectly with the other flavors.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A classic combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. This salad offers a refreshing crunch that complements the warm stuffed peppers beautifully.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic is perfect for dipping or drizzling over your stuffed peppers. It adds a cool contrast that enhances each flavorful bite.

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings depth and sweetness to your meal. Think bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for added Mediterranean flair!

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with vegetable broth and herbs serves as a hearty side dish that rounds out your meal while remaining light and nutritious.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful dish at home! With these tips and suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends alike with your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze them for a quick meal later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely first.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350℉.
• Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common ones about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! While this recipe features ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers are delightful on their own but pair well with a fresh Greek salad or whole grain pita bread. Don’t forget the tzatziki sauce!

How do I make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers spicier?

For a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your stuffing mixture.

Can I prepare Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers in advance?

Yes! You can prep and stuff the peppers ahead of time, then cover and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They bring vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients together in a fun way that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a lovely weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!