If you are looking to spice up your weeknight dinners with something bold, flavorful, and downright satisfying, this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender bell peppers bursting with a tangy, spicy chicken filling that’s smothered in melty mozzarella and topped with fresh herbs. It’s a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and freshness in every bite that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Plus, this dish brings a lovely pop of color to your plate that makes it as beautiful to serve as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are a beautiful blend of everyday staples and vibrant flavors, all playing their part to create that unforgettable spicy Buffalo chicken experience inside crisp bell peppers. Each item brings texture, zest, or richness that makes the dish sing.
- 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeded: Provides a crunchy, colorful vessel to hold the spicy goodness.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base that soaks up all those delicious Buffalo flavors.
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot): The heart of the spice, delivering that iconic Buffalo kick.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to balance out the heat.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, enhancing aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a savory punch to the mixture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.
- Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish: Fresh herbs for a vibrant, flavorful finish.
How to Make Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, halve and seed the bell peppers, then arrange them in a baking dish. This step is key for getting those peppers tender but still holding their shape once they bake.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, which lays a tasty foundation for the filling and releases wonderful aromas that will fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Chicken
Add the ground chicken to the skillet with the garlic and onions. Cook thoroughly, breaking it up into small pieces as it browns. Season with salt and pepper to ensure every bite is well-flavored and savory.
Step 4: Add the Buffalo Sauce Mixture
Pour in the hot sauce and ranch dressing, stirring until the chicken is fully coated. This mixture is where the magic happens—it infuses the meat with heat, tang, and creaminess all at once, creating that classic Buffalo chicken taste.
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers and Top with Cheese
Fill each bell pepper half generously with the spicy chicken mixture. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. This step guarantees a gooey, melty topping that complements the spicy filling perfectly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for softened peppers and melted, bubbly cheese on top—this baking time brings the flavors together and creates that irresistible texture contrast.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, top the stuffed peppers with chopped green onions and cilantro. These fresh garnishes add a pop of color and a sprinkle of brightness that elevates the entire dish.
How to Serve Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your dish with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions and cilantro to provide a fresh, herbal balance to the spicy richness. You could also add a dollop of ranch or blue cheese dressing to make every bite even creamier and cooler against the heat.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or classic celery and carrot sticks, which play nicely off the Buffalo flavors and add some crunch and freshness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these stuffed peppers atop a bed of seasoned rice or cauliflower rice to soak up all the extra sauce. You could also halve them into smaller portions as appetizers at your next gathering, making them perfect finger foods with an irresistible kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days, making them an excellent option for quick lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
You can freeze the stuffed peppers before baking. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to bake fresh.
Reheating
To reheat, place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. This method keeps the peppers tender and the filling flavorful without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can finely chop or shred cooked chicken breast and use it instead. Just mix it with the hot sauce and ranch dressing, then stuff it into the peppers as usual.
How spicy is this Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe?
The heat level mainly depends on the hot sauce you choose. Using a classic Frank’s RedHot gives a moderate, approachable spice, but you can adjust for more or less heat by changing the amount or swapping in a milder or hotter sauce.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or even cooked lentils. Just toss them with the hot sauce and ranch for that signature Buffalo flavor.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella melts beautifully and balances heat with creaminess, but you could also try shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for an extra flavor punch.
Are these suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. The Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe reheats well and maintains its flavor and texture, making it an ideal choice for prepping meals ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a comforting hug packed with flavor and heat. It’s easy enough to make any night of the week but special enough to impress friends and family. I can’t recommend it highly enough—grab those peppers, whip up the filling, and get ready for a meal that will become a cherished favorite in your recipe arsenal.
