Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the sunshine of the Mediterranean right to your table, then these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this recipe has become one of my all-time favorites. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering, these stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

The moment you pull these colorful peppers from the oven, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma that’s sure to make everyone eager for dinner. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit any occasion, making them a go-to meal in my household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this dish. A few steps and you’re on your way to a delightful meal!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone can enjoy these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers, making them perfect for both kids and adults.
• Nutritious and filling: With lean protein and plenty of veggies, these stuffed peppers are as healthy as they are satisfying.
• Great for meal prep: Make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for those busy nights when cooking feels like a chore.
• Delicious flavor explosion: The combination of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean spices creates a mouthwatering taste that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully! Here’s what you need for your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers:

• ⅔ cup uncooked white rice, or about 2 cups cooked white rice
• 3 bell peppers, halved horizontally and seeded
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 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
• ½ cup water
• lemon wedges, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is their flexibility! Feel free to tailor them to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of ground chicken, try using ground turkey or even quinoa for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Add in other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to sneak in even more nutrition!
• Try different cheeses: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or a dairy-free alternative works wonderfully too.
• Add some spice: For those who like it hot, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the stuffing mix.

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Cook the Rice

Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉. While it warms up, cook your rice according to package instructions. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked rice is the base of our stuffing!

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard the stems and seeds. Arrange them cut side up in a baking dish. This presentation not only looks beautiful but allows for even cooking!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink—this helps keep everything juicy! Remember to drain any excess liquid as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Spices

Stir in Italian seasoning, diced red onion, minced garlic, and zucchini into your skillet. Cooking these for an additional two minutes will enhance their flavors and make your filling even tastier!

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

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

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with this delicious mixture and sprinkle more feta on top along with extra dill. Pour water into the baking dish; this helps steam the peppers while they bake.

Step 7: Bake & Serve

Cover with foil and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes. Once they’re done baking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over each pepper before serving—this brightens up all those lovely flavors! Enjoy them warm alongside tzatziki sauce for an added touch.

There you have it! A scrumptious Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create the perfect dish every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs amplify the flavors and make your stuffed peppers more vibrant and delicious. Opting for seasonal produce can really enhance your dish.

• Don’t overstuff the peppers: While it might be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, leaving a little space allows the peppers to cook evenly and prevents them from bursting during baking.

• Pre-cook the rice: This not only saves time but also ensures that the rice is fluffy and fully cooked when mixed with the other ingredients. It helps maintain a lovely texture throughout.

• Experiment with spices: If you want to add a personal touch, try incorporating other Mediterranean herbs like oregano or thyme into your filling. This can give your stuffed peppers an extra layer of flavor.

• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your stuffed peppers to sit for a few minutes after they come out of the oven lets the flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it makes them easier to handle!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not just delicious; they also look stunning on any table! Here are some ideas for presenting this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh dill on top add a pop of color and enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Crumbled feta: A sprinkle of additional feta cheese right before serving creates a nice visual contrast and adds creaminess to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta drizzled with olive oil pairs beautifully with the stuffed peppers, offering a crisp contrast.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic complements the flavors of the peppers perfectly while adding a cool touch to each bite.

• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with lemon juice and fresh herbs provides a nutritious side that enhances the Mediterranean theme.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers brings out earthy flavors that harmonize well with your stuffed pepper dish.

Enjoy creating this beautiful meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350℉.
• Remove any wrapping and place the peppers in a baking dish.
• Cover with foil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them covered on a microwave-safe plate for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even plant-based alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian option while still enjoying the Mediterranean flavors.

How can I make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

To make these stuffed peppers vegetarian, simply swap out the ground chicken with lentils or quinoa mixed with additional vegetables. You can adjust seasoning as needed for flavor enhancement.

What should I serve with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or homemade tzatziki sauce. You may also want to serve crusty bread or pita on the side for a complete meal!

How long do Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers will last up to 3 days in the fridge. Enjoy them during those busy weekdays!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to dive into making these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers! They not only bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table but also offer a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for friends, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventures with this recipe!