Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers 🧀🌶️

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4


Introduction:

If you’re a fan of classic stuffed peppers but looking to elevate the flavor, these Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers are exactly what you need. This dish combines juicy chicken with flavorful marinara, melted cheese, and the bold, savory kick of Parmesan cheese—all packed into tender bell peppers. It’s a healthier, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or even meal prep.

Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also low-carb and gluten-free, making it a versatile option that suits various dietary preferences. Let’s get cooking!


Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color, tops sliced off, seeds removed)
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Low Carb: Skip the rice or pasta; these stuffed peppers are a hearty low-carb option.
  • Family-Friendly: A great way to get kids to eat their veggies, all while enjoying cheesy, flavorful chicken.
  • Versatile: Perfect for dinner, leftovers, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the bell peppers by slicing off the tops and removing the seeds and ribs inside. Lightly drizzle olive oil inside each pepper and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, just to soften them a little before stuffing.

2. Cook the Chicken

If your chicken isn’t already cooked, cook the chicken breasts over medium heat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once cooked through (internal temp of 165°F), shred the chicken using two forks.

3. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.

4. Stuff the Peppers

Remove the peppers from the oven. Fill each pepper generously with the chicken mixture. Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake to Perfection

Return the stuffed peppers to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. For an extra golden finish, broil for the last 2 minutes.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot!


Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair It Up: Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Sauce It Up: Drizzle with extra marinara or pesto sauce for even more flavor.
  • Meal Prep Tip: These stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.

Pro Tips:

  1. Pre-bake the Peppers: Softening the peppers before stuffing them ensures they cook evenly and aren’t too crunchy.
  2. Cheese Options: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
  3. Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the chicken filling for extra nutrients and texture.

FAQs:

Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and absorbs all the marinara goodness beautifully. Just cook the ground chicken in a skillet with some olive oil before mixing it with the sauce and cheese.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed peppers and refrigerate them unbaked. When ready to serve, simply bake them as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since they will be cold.

What other meats can I use?
You can easily substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even sausage for a different take on this recipe.


Why These Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers Stand Out:

These stuffed peppers are the perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating. The rich marinara sauce, the blend of melty cheeses, and the tender chicken all combine to create a satisfying dish that’s loaded with flavor. The addition of Parmesan brings that extra savory depth, elevating this dish to a whole new level.

Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a fun dinner recipe, these Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers are sure to please your taste buds and your family!

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