Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen, these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! This recipe is a favorite of mine because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting friends for a summer dinner party or simply looking for a satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, these stuffed peppers have got you covered.

The combination of juicy ground chicken, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs all nestled in sweet bell peppers makes this dish a true delight. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones instead of spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love these colorful stuffed peppers. It’s a fun way to get kids involved in cooking!
• Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with wholesome ingredients, you’ll feel good serving these to your family.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them ahead of time and simply pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Bursting with Flavor: The Mediterranean spices and fresh ingredients create a delightful taste that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers. You likely have many of these items already in your pantry!

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 how flexible they are. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients!

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
• Change up the grains: Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a fun twist.
• Spice it up: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to give it an extra kick!

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. This is the base of our filling and ensures each bite is hearty and satisfying.

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 step is crucial as it allows us to fill each pepper generously with our flavorful mixture.

Step 3: Brown 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. Draining excess liquid ensures that our filling isn’t too watery.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Spices

Stir in Italian seasoning, red onion, garlic, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring occasionally. Sautéing these vegetables enhances their flavors while adding texture to our filling.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and dill. Stir until well combined. This mixture is where all those vibrant Mediterranean flavors come together beautifully!

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Generously stuff each bell pepper with the mixture and sprinkle tops with more feta cheese and dill. Pour ½ cup water into the baking dish to help steam the peppers during cooking. Cover with foil before popping them into the oven.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until peppers are tender. Just before serving, squeeze lemon juice over the top for that refreshing zing! Enjoy your delightful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers alongside homemade or store-bought tzatziki sauce.

I hope you enjoy making—and eating—these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Making the perfect Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is all about the details, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your dish and provide more vibrant colors. This not only makes your meal healthier but also visually appealing.

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook the ground chicken just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to a dry filling, which we definitely want to avoid in this delightful dish.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs beyond Italian seasoning, like oregano or thyme, to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

• Adjust pepper size: Depending on the size of your bell peppers, you may need more or fewer peppers. Look for large ones that can hold a generous amount of stuffing without overflowing.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the stuffed peppers to sit for about 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to serve.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Serving your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to present this delicious dish at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Crumbled feta cheese: A sprinkle of feta on top brings an extra layer of creaminess and enhances the Mediterranean vibe.
• Sliced green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and crunch that complements the softness of the peppers beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Greek salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil and lemon juice pairs perfectly with stuffed peppers.
• Quinoa tabbouleh: This light herbed salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, and tomatoes provides a fluffy texture that balances well with the heartiness of the stuffed peppers.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers seasoned with olive oil make for a colorful plate and enhance the meal’s Mediterranean flair.
• Tzatziki sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, this creamy yogurt dip with cucumber and garlic is a cooling complement that adds zest to each bite.

Enjoy crafting your meal with these tips and serving suggestions! Your guests (and taste buds) will thank you.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and store them for quick, satisfying dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They 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℉ and place the peppers in a baking dish covered with foil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place one pepper on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Just remember that brown rice may require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

How can I make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers, you can replace the ground chicken with lentils or quinoa mixed with additional vegetables like mushrooms or chickpeas.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or some homemade tzatziki sauce for added freshness!

Can Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! These stuffed peppers are fantastic for meal prep and can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the fridge, or even frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They’re not only full of flavor but also provide a balanced meal that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or prepping meals for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!