Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a colorful and delicious dish that brings the flavors of Greece to your kitchen. They are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The combination of ground chicken, quinoa or rice, and fresh vegetables stuffed into sweet bell peppers makes for a hearty meal that your whole family will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for many reasons. First, it is healthy and balanced. The dish includes lean protein from chicken, whole grains from quinoa or rice, and plenty of veggies. Second, it is very versatile—you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home. Lastly, it’s a visually appealing dish that can impress your family and friends, making it great for gatherings or special occasions.
How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Peppers: Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the ground chicken to the pan and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break it apart while cooking.
- Once cooked, add cooked quinoa or rice, chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix well until everything is combined and heated through.
- Carefully stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture. Press down gently to ensure they’re filled adequately.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.
- Peppers should be tender but still hold their shape. The filling should be heated throughout.
- Once done, remove from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Top with additional crumbled feta cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Serve these stuffed peppers warm as a standalone dish or with a side salad for a complete meal. They can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner and are great for meal prep, too!
How to Store Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Store any leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to the filling.
- Adjust the spices to your liking; you can add a little chili powder for some heat.
- Make sure to cook the filling thoroughly before stuffing the peppers.
Variations
Instead of ground chicken, try using ground turkey or beef for different flavors. You can also make them vegetarian by substituting the meat with additional vegetables or beans.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes! You can use any kind of bell peppers or even poblano peppers for a spicier kick.
2. How can I make this gluten-free?
Use quinoa or rice as the base, and ensure all other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat.
This simple and delicious recipe for Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a must-try. It’s packed with flavor, healthy ingredients, and can be tailored just for you and your family’s taste buds! Enjoy cooking!
