Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a dish that brings warmth and sunshine to your dinner table, these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are just the ticket! This recipe is not only bursting with Mediterranean flavors but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something wholesome yet delicious, or for family gatherings where everyone can dig in together. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a beloved staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Mediterranean flavors: Each bite is packed with the vibrant tastes of Greece, making it a delightful treat for your taste buds.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat.
• Customizable: Feel free to adapt the filling to suit your preferences or what you have on hand!
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time, and enjoy them throughout the week for quick dinners or lunches.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into these colorful peppers!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful 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 how flexible they are! You can mix and match ingredients based on your taste or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutrition and flavor!
• Change up the grains: Quinoa or farro can be used instead of rice for a nutty twist.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick it up a notch!

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat and Cook Rice

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it’s warming up, cook the rice according to package instructions. This step ensures that each pepper gets filled with perfectly fluffy rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard the stems while removing any ribs and seeds. Lay them cut side up in a 9X13 baking dish. This creates lovely little boats ready to hold all that delicious filling!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add the ground chicken along with salt and pepper. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Be sure to drain any excess liquid so your filling isn’t too watery.

Step 4: Add Veggies and Seasoning

Stir in Italian seasoning, red onion, garlic, and zucchini. Cook everything together for an additional two minutes, stirring occasionally. This step brings out the sweetness of the onions and garlic while softening the zucchini.

Step 5: Mix It All Together

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

Step 6: Stuff Those Peppers

Generously stuff each bell pepper with your delicious mixture! Sprinkle more feta cheese and dill on top for an extra burst of flavor. Pour about half a cup of water into the baking dish; this helps steam the peppers as they bake.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Cover with foil and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes until peppers are tender. Just before serving, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over them for that zesty finish! Enjoy these beauties with tzatziki sauce on the side—it’s truly a match made in heaven!

Pro Tips for Making Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Creating the perfect Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose ripe peppers: Opt for firm, brightly colored bell peppers to enhance the dish’s visual appeal and sweetness. Fresh peppers will not only taste better but also hold their shape while baking.

• Don’t overstuff: While it might be tempting to pack the filling tightly, leaving a little room allows the peppers to cook evenly and prevents them from bursting during baking. This keeps every bite flavorful and intact!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling mix. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add a delightful kick that complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

• Make it ahead: Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them covered in the fridge before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together, making them even tastier when baked!

• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure that your ground chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees food safety without overcooking.

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Presentation is key when serving these vibrant Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers! They make for an eye-catching centerpiece at any meal. Here are some suggestions on how to serve this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle additional chopped dill or parsley on top just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh lemon juice over their peppers for added brightness.
• Extra feta: A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese adds both flavor and visual appeal, making each plate look gourmet.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta dressed with olive oil and lemon juice pairs perfectly with stuffed peppers. Its crispness balances the warm filling beautifully.

• Tzatziki Sauce: Serve alongside homemade or store-bought tzatziki sauce for a cool and creamy contrast. The yogurt-based dip enhances the Mediterranean vibes while adding moisture to each bite.

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs make an excellent side dish that complements the stuffed peppers’ flavors while providing a satisfying crunch.

• Quinoa Pilaf: For a nutritious twist, consider serving quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs and vegetables. It’s light yet hearty enough to round out your meal!

Enjoy these scrumptious Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as part of your next dinner gathering or simply as a cozy weeknight meal—either way, they’re sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making your life a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stuffed peppers to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To keep the flavors fresh, consider separating the stuffing from the peppers if you plan to store them for more than one day.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw frozen peppers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350℉. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave on medium power for about 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind while preparing your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative and adds extra fiber. Just keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time.

How can I spice up my Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Feel free to add more spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for heat, or mix in some chopped spinach for extra nutrition!

Are Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! As long as you choose gluten-free rice and check that any added ingredients like feta cheese don’t contain gluten, these stuffed peppers are a wonderful gluten-free option.

Can Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers be made vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute ground chicken with lentils or quinoa mixed with your favorite veggies and spices for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers as I was when creating this recipe! They’re filled with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients that make every bite enjoyable. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or meal prepping for busy days ahead, they are sure to impress. Enjoy making this dish and feel free to share your experience with me—I love hearing from fellow food lovers!