Savory Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Stuffed peppers are a satisfying meal that combines a variety of flavors and textures in one dish. This recipe features bell peppers filled with a tasty mixture of chicken, vegetables, and spices, baked to perfection. It’s a healthy option that can be customized to your liking, making it a versatile choice for any dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Blanch the peppers in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to soften slightly, then arrange them in a baking dish.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, cooked rice, black beans, and corn, and cook until everything is heated through. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese and the chopped cilantro or parsley.
6. Spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper, packing it tightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of each stuffed pepper.
7. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the baking dish around the peppers to create a bit of steam while cooking.
8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
10. Let the stuffed peppers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Your chicken stuffed peppers are now ready to enjoy! Serve them with a side salad or your favorite steamed veggies. This dish not only presents beautifully but also packs a punch of protein and is brimming with a variety of nutrients from the colorful vegetables. It’s a meal that is as aesthetically pleasing as it is delicious!