Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition, look no further than these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers! These delightful peppers are not only visually stunning but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will satisfy your cravings. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to your dining table. Plus, they make fantastic leftovers, so you can enjoy them again without any extra effort!

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare while still feeling like a treat. Each bite is a delicious blend of textures and flavors, from the juicy ground chicken to the fresh veggies and tangy feta cheese. Trust me, once you try these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers, they will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and tasty filling.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the stuffed peppers ahead of time and simply bake before serving for a stress-free dinner.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and Mediterranean ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is nutritious without compromising taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers. You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Filling

• 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. Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even quinoa for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant for extra nutrients.
• Change the cheese: If you’re not a feta fan, try goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like it hot!

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook Rice

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it’s heating up, cook the rice according to package instructions. This step is essential because perfectly cooked rice adds texture to our filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard stems, ribs, and seeds from the peppers. Lay them cut side up in a 9×13 baking dish. This helps create beautiful pockets ready for stuffing!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks—this ensures even cooking and flavor throughout.

Step 4: Stir in Vegetables

Add Italian seasoning, diced red onion, minced garlic, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Sautéing these veggies brings out their sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice with the chicken mixture, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese (saving some for topping), and fresh dill. Stir until everything is well combined; this mixture is going to be delicious!

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each pepper generously with the mixture! Top them off with remaining feta cheese and dill. Pour about ½ cup water into the baking dish to help steam those peppers while they bake—this keeps them tender.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven for about 40 to 45 minutes. When they’re done baking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over top before serving. Enjoy these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers warm with tzatziki sauce on the side!

I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s truly one of those meals that brings everyone together at the table.

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose vibrant peppers: Opt for bell peppers in assorted colors for a visually stunning presentation. The different hues not only make the dish more appealing but also provide a variety of nutrients.

• Pre-cook your rice: If you’re using uncooked rice, be sure to cook it ahead of time. This way, the rice blends seamlessly into the filling, ensuring even cooking and better texture in each bite.

• Don’t overfill the peppers: When stuffing your peppers, leave a little space at the top. This allows them to steam properly while baking and prevents any spillage that could result in a messy dish.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative with the seasoning! Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can give your stuffed peppers an exciting twist.

• Let them rest before serving: Allow the stuffed peppers to sit for about 5 minutes after taking them out of the oven. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Serving these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be just as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra dill adds freshness and color, enhancing both the look and flavor of the dish.
• Lemon zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top just before serving provides a burst of citrus aroma and enhances the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta dressed with olive oil makes for a crisp side that complements the stuffed peppers perfectly.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce flavored with garlic and cucumber offers a cool contrast to the warm stuffed peppers. Plus, it’s great for dipping!
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like eggplant, zucchini, or carrots can round out your meal with added nutrients and flavors.
• Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides additional protein and fiber while keeping things light and refreshing.

Enjoy these delightful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers at your next dinner gathering or cozy family night! They are sure to impress everyone at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not just a delight to eat, but they also make fantastic meal prep options! You can prepare them in advance, store them, and enjoy a wholesome meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely.
• Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stuffed peppers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350℉.
• Place the peppers in a baking dish with a splash of water to keep them moist.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use other types of meat for Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking times align with your chosen protein.

How can I customize my Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or switch up the grains by using quinoa instead of rice. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair beautifully with a fresh salad or homemade tzatziki sauce. You might also consider serving them alongside pita bread for a complete Mediterranean experience.

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

The total time from prep to table is approximately 70 minutes, which includes cooking and baking time. It’s perfect for any night of the week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers! They bring together vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients that are sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners easier and more delicious. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family!