Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dinner that makes you feel like you’ve been whisked away to the sunny Mediterranean, then these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are just what you need! This recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also brings a smile to my face every time I make it. The combination of tender ground chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty feta cheese stuffed inside vibrant bell peppers creates a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

These stuffed peppers are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You can even prepare them ahead of time and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavors: Each bite is filled with Mediterranean goodness that transports your tastebuds.
• Easy preparation: With simple steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for any night.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love the colorful presentation and tasty filling!
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and wholesome grains, it’s a balanced meal in one.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep these stuffed peppers in advance for an effortless dinner solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. These components come together to create a delightful medley of flavors in each stuffed pepper.

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

The beauty of Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers lies in their flexibility! Feel free to play around with different ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer something different.
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Try goat cheese instead of feta for a tangy twist!
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a little kick.

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Preheat your oven to 350℉ and cook the rice according to package instructions. Cooking the rice first ensures it’s fluffy and ready to mix into our delicious filling later on!

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard any stems and seeds, then lay them cut side up in a baking dish. This step is crucial because it allows the peppers to hold all that tasty filling while they bake.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess liquid. This step locks in flavor while ensuring our filling is nice and juicy.

Step 4: Add Flavorful Veggies

Stir in Italian seasoning, red onion, garlic, and zucchini into the skillet. Cooking these together helps infuse their flavors into the chicken. Sauté everything for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon this hearty mixture into each halved pepper generously. Sprinkle more feta and dill on top for extra goodness! Pour ½ cup of water into your baking dish—it helps steam the peppers while they bake.

Step 7: Bake & Serve

Cover your baking dish with foil and pop it into the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. When they’re done baking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over each pepper before serving. Pair them with tzatziki sauce for that authentic touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers with family or friends—happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Creating these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose ripe peppers: Selecting vibrant, fresh bell peppers not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to your dish, making it visually appealing on your dinner table.

• Mix in some grains: Adding cooked quinoa or couscous can boost the texture and nutrition of the filling, providing an extra layer of heartiness while keeping the dish gluten-free if you choose gluten-free grains.

• Don’t skip the steaming: Pouring water into the baking dish before covering it with foil creates steam that helps cook the peppers evenly and keeps them tender, ensuring a delightful bite every time.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like smoked paprika or cumin to customize the flavor profile to your taste. These spices can bring a unique twist to traditional Greek flavors.

• Make it ahead: Preparing the stuffed peppers up to a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store them in the refrigerator and bake when you’re ready to serve!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not just delicious; they’re also stunningly colorful! Presenting them beautifully can elevate your dining experience even more.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling additional chopped dill or parsley on top just before serving adds a burst of freshness and makes the dish pop visually.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top gives a bright finish that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese dressed in olive oil and lemon juice pairs wonderfully with stuffed peppers for a light yet satisfying meal.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers provide a colorful and flavorful accompaniment that enhances the Mediterranean theme.

• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic adds a cooling element that contrasts nicely with the warm stuffed peppers. It’s perfect for dipping!

• Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs offers another nutritious side option. The nuttiness of quinoa pairs well with the savory filling of the peppers.

Enjoy your meal and feel free to share this recipe with friends—it’s sure to impress at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance, making them an excellent choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your stuffed peppers, it’s best to do so before baking.
• Wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350℉ and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen peppers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the same reheating instructions as above.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high for 3-5 minutes, checking until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers that you may find helpful!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthy alternative and adds extra fiber. Just be sure to cook it beforehand as it takes longer than white rice.

How can I make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers vegetarian?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground chicken with cooked quinoa or lentils. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrients!

What sides pair well with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers pair beautifully with a fresh Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of tzatziki sauce and pita bread!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as much as I do! They are not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!