Chicken And Rice Stuffed Peppers

Name: Chicken And Rice Stuffed Peppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large bell peppers (any color); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 1 cup salsa; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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I love making Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers for a delightful family meal. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and colorful bell peppers not only looks beautiful but tastes amazing too. Every bite is packed with flavor, and these stuffed peppers bring the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition to the table. Plus, they’re easy to customize based on what I have in the pantry. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish for a gathering, these stuffed peppers always impress.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:37:36.926Z

When I first made Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious they turned out. The key to my success was pre-cooking the rice and chicken, which ensured that everything cooked evenly in the oven. I also discovered that adding a sprinkle of cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking gives a wonderful creamy texture that everyone loves.

Each time I make these stuffed peppers, I try different herbs and spices to switch things up. Recently, I added smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness, which took the dish to a whole new level. It's amazing how such a versatile recipe can always surprise me with new flavors!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and colorful presentation that is sure to impress
Hearty filling that satisfies without being overly heavy
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and spices

      

Selecting the Perfect Peppers

When choosing bell peppers for stuffing, opt for large, firm ones that will hold their shape during baking. Look for peppers with smooth skin and vibrant colors, as they tend to be sweeter. Green peppers can provide a slight bitterness that pairs well with the rich filling, while red, yellow, or orange peppers will add a touch of sweetness to the dish.

To ensure an even cook, cut the tops off the peppers where they begin to curve rather than where they are straight. This allows more filling to fit inside while maintaining the structural integrity of the pepper. If you want to reduce the cooking time, consider pre-steaming the peppers for about 5 minutes before stuffing them.

Flavor Enhancements and Substitutions

The filling in these stuffed peppers is versatile and welcoming to various adjustments. If you're looking for a kick, add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the mixture. For a creamier texture, consider incorporating a bit of sour cream or cream cheese, blending it with the salsa for richer flavor.

For those on a low-carb diet, substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to maintain the dish's heartiness while reducing carbohydrates. If you're vegetarian, replace the chicken with additional black beans or lentils, ensuring that you add some extra spices to boost the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a deliciously stuffed meal!

Ingredients

4 large bell peppers (any color)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn, frozen or canned
1 cup salsa
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get started with the preparation!

Instructions

Follow these steps for making delicious stuffed peppers!

Prepare the Peppers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them upright in a baking dish.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, salsa, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

Stuff the Peppers

Fill each bell pepper with the chicken and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the filling. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped jalapeños or different spices into the filling. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing Chicken and Rice Stuffed Peppers in advance can save time on hectic weeknights. After assembling the peppers, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, adjust the baking time by adding an extra 10-15 minutes to ensure they heat through thoroughly.

If you're looking to store leftovers, these stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them in 1-2 minute intervals until heated through, or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

These stuffed peppers pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or some warm, crusty bread to soak up any salsa or sauce. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty grain, such as quinoa or couscous, to complement the flavors.

If you're entertaining guests, consider serving individual peppers as part of a larger spread, accompanied by toppings like sliced avocado, sour cream, or a spicy yogurt sauce. This allows everyone to customize their meal, ensuring that every bite is just the way they like it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. Just ensure it's fully cooked before mixing.

→ How can I store leftover stuffed peppers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to stuff the peppers.

→ What other fillings can I use?

Feel free to mix in other ingredients like quinoa, ground turkey, or different vegetables based on your preference!