Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a burst of flavor all in one bite, then these Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers are about to become your new favorite. This recipe combines tender bell peppers filled with a dreamy mixture of shredded chicken, tangy salsa verde, and rich, melted cheeses that create an unbeatable creamy texture. It’s a colorful, satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome—perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends at your next gathering. Trust me, once you try Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this dish plays a starring role, making the preparation surprisingly simple yet loaded with flavor and texture. Fresh bell peppers provide a crisp, juicy vessel for the filling, while a blend of creamy cheeses and zesty salsa verde bring richness and a touch of tang. The spices and scallions add subtle layers to keep each bite exciting and fresh.

• Bell peppers (3, halved): Choose vibrant colors for visual appeal and a sweet, mild crunch.
• Cooked chicken breast (4 cups shredded): Provides a lean, hearty protein base that soaks up the creamy flavors.
• Salsa verde (1/2 cup): Adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick and beautiful green hue.
• Reduced fat cream cheese (4 oz): Gives that luscious creamy texture without heaviness—Philadelphia 1/3 Less Fat is perfect here.
• Reduced fat cheddar cheese (4 oz grated): Brings sharp, melty goodness; reserve 1 oz for topping for the perfect crust—Cabot Sharp Cheddar 75% Reduced Fat works well.
• Paprika (1 tsp): A smoky warmth that ties everything together.
• Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Adds subtle savory depth.
• Scallions (2, chopped): Introduce a fresh bite and a lovely pop of green.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Prepare the Peppers

Start by washing the bell peppers, then slice each one in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the seeds and the white ribs inside, so you’re left with a hollow shell perfect for stuffing. This step ensures the peppers soften evenly while baking, creating the ideal tender bite without bitterness.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, salsa verde, paprika, and onion powder along with 3 ounces of the grated cheddar cheese. This mixture forms the creamy, flavorful base of the filling. The cream cheese melts smoothly while the salsa verde offers a lively tanginess that balances the richness.

Step 3: Mix in the Chicken and Scallions

Fold in the shredded cooked chicken breast and finely chopped scallions into the creamy mixture. The shredded chicken ensures every bite is hearty and protein-packed without feeling heavy. The scallions add a subtle crunch and freshness that brighten the filling beautifully.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Carefully spoon equal portions of the creamy chicken filling into each prepared pepper half. Fill them generously so every pepper is bursting with flavor. This step is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a stunning and comforting dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the remaining 1 ounce of cheddar cheese over the stuffed peppers for a melty, golden crust. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to keep the peppers moist while allowing the cheese to melt nicely. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is bubbling and lightly browned.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright, herbal finish that complements the creamy richness. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime on top can also elevate the flavor and add an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

These stuffed peppers are quite filling on their own, but pairing them with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies adds wonderful balance. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf to soak up the creamy, flavorful juices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers directly on rustic wooden boards for a cozy presentation or place them on a bed of lightly sautéed greens for a fresh, elegant look. You can also cut them into smaller portions for appetizer-style servings at parties—guaranteed to wow your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners.

Freezing

If you want to keep these tasty peppers longer, they freeze beautifully. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready to bake whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen peppers overnight in the fridge or reheat refrigerated ones directly. Place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Avoid microwaving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar keep it creamy and sharp, you can swap in mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for some extra spice. Mixing cheeses lets you tailor the dish to your taste.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken beforehand?

Yes, cooked chicken works best for this recipe. Using cooked chicken ensures the filling is already tender and infused with flavor, plus it reduces baking time since the peppers just need to cook until tender and the cheese melts.

Can I make Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the shredded chicken with black beans, cooked quinoa, or sautéed mushrooms. These options keep the texture and protein while making the dish meat-free and just as satisfying.

What type of bell peppers work best?

All bell pepper colors work well, but red, yellow, or orange peppers tend to be sweeter and less bitter than green ones. Mixing colors in one dish makes it visually stunning and adds a variety of mild sweetness.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust it?

The salsa verde adds a mild to moderate tangy heat depending on the brand or recipe you use. To control spiciness, choose a mild salsa verde or opt for a regular salsa. You can always add a dash of hot sauce for extra kick or leave it out for a gentle flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into Creamy Chicken Stuffed Peppers—a dish that feels like a comforting hug in food form, yet looks elegant enough to serve any day of the week. Give this recipe a try and you’ll discover just how simple ingredients combine to create pure magic. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers will sneak their way into your regular rotation—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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