Stuffed Peppers

These Stuffed Peppers are a hearty and flavorful dish, combining tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and rice, all baked to perfection inside sweet bell peppers. With paprika and cumin adding a warm, earthy flavor, these stuffed peppers are satisfying and versatile, perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep.

Why This Is The Best Recipe

This recipe is a complete meal in itself, with protein, vegetables, and grains all packed inside the bell peppers. The combination of chicken thighs, mushrooms, and rice creates a flavorful and satisfying filling, while the spices give the dish a fragrant, savory kick. The balance of textures—soft peppers, tender chicken, and slightly chewy rice—makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different vegetables or grains based on your preference.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Adds a tender, juicy protein base to the filling.
• 1/2 cup round grain rice (such as Arborio or Jasmine): This rice has a firm texture and absorbs the flavors well.
• 6 bell peppers: Sweet bell peppers serve as both the vessel and a flavorful element of the dish.
• 5 mushrooms: Adds an earthy, umami flavor to the filling.
• 1 onion: Provides a sweet and savory base for the filling.
• 1 carrot: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
• 2 cloves of garlic: Aromatic garlic enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and warmth to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses the filling with a rich, earthy spice.
• Salt, to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors of the filling.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds a slight heat and rounds out the spices.

How to make this recipe

1. Prepare the bell peppers:
   • Wash the bell peppers, cut off the tops, and remove the seeds. Set the tops aside to replace after stuffing.
2. Prep the vegetables and chicken:
   • Wash and peel the carrot and onion. Dice the onion into small cubes and grate the carrot. Finely chop the garlic.
   • Cut the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces.
3. Cook the filling:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Add the chopped onions, carrots, mushrooms, and chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened.
   • Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine the spices with the chicken and vegetables.
4. Cook the rice:
   • In a separate pot, boil the rice for 7-10 minutes until it’s slightly undercooked (it will finish cooking in the oven). Drain and rinse the rice, then set it aside.
5. Combine the filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff the peppers:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
   • Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken and rice mixture. Replace the tops of the peppers.
7. Bake the peppers:
   • Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. If desired, add a little water or tomato juice to the bottom of the dish to keep the peppers moist.
   • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Finish baking:
   • After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking until the tops of the peppers are lightly browned, about 10-15 more minutes.
9. Serve and enjoy:
   • Once the peppers are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Stuffed Peppers are delicious on their own or served with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overstuff the peppers: Leave a little room at the top of each pepper for expansion as the rice continues to cook in the oven.
• Switch up the protein: Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with ground beef, turkey, or even tofu for a different variation.
• Add cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of the stuffed peppers during the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Make ahead: These stuffed peppers can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving, making them a perfect option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Enjoy these warm, flavorful Stuffed Peppers, a comforting and balanced meal perfect for any occasion!