Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Easy

Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

(289)
50 min4380 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|March 15, 2024

Stuffed peppers are one of those dinners that looks like it requires effort but is secretly very straightforward — hollow out the peppers, make a filling, stuff them, bake them. The filling in this version uses ground chicken mixed with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and Mexican spices. It's a complete meal inside an edible container. The peppers soften in the oven and become sweet and slightly smoky while the filling stays moist from the tomatoes. Top with shredded cheese in the last 10 minutes so it melts and bubbles but doesn't burn. This recipe makes 8 pepper halves, which feeds 4 people or provides meal-prep lunches for the week.

healthy-chickenstuffedbell-pepperscomplete-meal

Ingredients

Servings:
4

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Mise en Place Saves Time

Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.

Use a Meat Thermometer

The only reliable way to know chicken is safe and perfectly cooked is an instant-read thermometer. Pull at 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. No guessing, no cutting into it and losing juices.

About This Recipe

Chicken stuffed bell peppers are a delightful and nutritious meal that brings a burst of colour to your dinner table. This dish is particularly special because of its simplicity – it combines everyday ingredients like ground chicken, rice, and black beans, all nestled in a tender bell pepper. The sweet and smoky notes from the roasted peppers perfectly complement the zesty filling, making it a well-rounded meal that feels both comforting and vibrant. Canadian home cooks adore this recipe not just for its ease but also for its versatility; it’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners or meal prep, as it can easily be adapted with whatever ingredients you may have on hand.

Imagine coming home after a long day and being able to whip up these stuffed peppers in under an hour. The aroma of cumin and chili powder fills your kitchen, promising a satisfying meal. Each bite delivers a medley of textures and flavours, from the soft, roasted pepper to the hearty filling. This recipe serves as a reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated – just a little creativity and a handful of familiar ingredients can lead to a truly unforgettable dish.

Tips for the Best Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

To ensure your chicken stuffed bell peppers turn out perfectly every time, focus on the moisture of your filling. Ground chicken can easily dry out if overcooked, so aim for a final internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Mixing in the diced tomatoes and black beans keeps the filling juicy, while the cheese on top adds a delightful melted layer. Remember to bake the peppers until they are just tender, usually around 25-30 minutes, to maintain their vibrant colour and sweetness.

What to Serve With It

These chicken stuffed bell peppers shine when served alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, or perhaps some homemade guacamole for a creamy contrast. A side of tortilla chips can add a satisfying crunch, and don't forget a chilled Canadian lager or a refreshing glass of iced tea. This meal not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Leftovers of chicken stuffed bell peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, taking care to cover them with foil to prevent drying out. If you want to freeze them, wrap each stuffed pepper tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

380
Calories
30g
Protein
14g
Fat
34g
Carbs
Fiber7g
Sugar10g
Sodium520mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?+

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavour and more fiber to the dish. Just make sure it's fully cooked before mixing it with the filling, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.

What other vegetables can I add to the filling?+

Feel free to get creative! Diced zucchini, corn, or even spinach can enhance the filling's flavour and nutrition. Just ensure they are pre-cooked or finely chopped to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe in advance?+

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just stuff the peppers and bake them when you're ready to serve. This makes for an even more convenient weeknight dinner!

What can I substitute for ground chicken?+

If you're looking for alternatives, ground turkey or even plant-based meat substitutes work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

How do I know when the peppers are done?+

The peppers should be tender yet still hold their shape. You can test them by piercing with a fork; they should yield gently but not fall apart. Typically, 25-30 minutes in the oven is perfect.

Reviews

4.8 / 5 (289 reviews)
Nicole O.
Jun 25, 2025

Absolutely delicious! The whole family devoured it.

Kevin Y.
Nov 28, 2025

The flavours are incredible. Restaurant quality at home!

Ashley M.
Dec 8, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:
15 min
Cook:
35 min
Total:
50 min
Servings:
4
Difficulty:
Easy

Pro Tips

  • 1Red and orange bell peppers are sweeter than green ones. Use whatever colour you prefer, but the sweetness of ripe peppers pairs better with the spiced filling.
  • 2Par-bake the empty peppers for 10 minutes before stuffing if you prefer softer peppers.
  • 3Leftover stuffed peppers reheat perfectly in the microwave — one of the best meal-prep lunches.

Variations

  • Low-carb: skip the rice and add extra vegetables — diced zucchini or cauliflower rice works great.
  • Italian version: use Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the filling for a creamier, richer stuffing.

Healthy Chicken Recipes

Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

From our kitchen to yours — the perfect Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers.

by ChickenRecipes.ca

Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers - delicious Canadian chicken recipe
Chef Marco Deluca

Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience

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