Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean! Perfect for a family dinner or a summer gathering, this dish is not only nutritious but also visually stunning. Each pepper is filled with a savory mixture that embodies the essence of Greek cuisine, making it an unforgettable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple steps, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed – The combination of ground chicken, fresh vegetables, and herbs ensures every bite is bursting with delicious Mediterranean flavors.
• Versatile Meal – Serve these stuffed peppers as a main dish or as part of a larger spread; they pair wonderfully with salads or dips.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these peppers offer a nutritious option for any meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready to go will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking dish – Ideal for holding all the stuffed peppers together while they bake evenly.
• Large skillet – Provides ample space for cooking the ground chicken and vegetables without crowding.
• Mixing bowl – Essential for combining all the filling ingredients thoroughly before stuffing the peppers.

Ingredients

These gorgeous Chicken Stuffed Peppers are packed with Mediterranean flavors and textures! Nutritious and satisfying, this is a meal fit for a summer dinner party – or any night of the week.

For the Stuffing

• ⅔ cup uncooked white rice, or about 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 pound ground chicken breast
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
• ½ cup kalamata olives, chopped
• ½ cup feta cheese, divided, plus more for sprinkling
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

For the Peppers

• 3 bell peppers, halved horizontally and seeded
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup water
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it heats up, cook your rice according to package instructions so it’s ready when you need it.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

Slice each bell pepper horizontally from top to bottom. Discard stems, remove ribs, and seeds from the peppers. Lay them cut side up in a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Mixture

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
1. Add ground chicken, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess liquid from the skillet.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Stir in Italian seasoning, red onion, garlic, and zucchini into the skillet.
1. Cook for an additional 2 minutes while stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Cooked rice,
2. Chicken mixture,
3. Cherry tomatoes,
4. Kalamata olives,
5. Feta cheese,
6. Fresh dill.
Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Stuff the Peppers

Stuff each halved pepper with the filling mixture evenly.
1. Sprinkle tops with extra feta and dill.
2. Pour ½ cup water into the baking dish to help steam the peppers.
3. Cover with foil.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes until peppers are tender.

Step 8: Serve

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over each stuffed pepper before serving. Enjoy alongside homemade or store-bought tzatziki sauce!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Serving Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can elevate your dining experience. These vibrant and flavorful peppers can be complemented with various sides and garnishes that enhance their Mediterranean essence.

Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the stuffed peppers, adding crunch and freshness.

Tzatziki Sauce

• Serve each pepper alongside a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a creamy, tangy contrast that enhances the flavors of the dish.

Lemon Wedges

• Include fresh lemon wedges on the plate to add a zesty kick. Squeezing lemon over the peppers right before eating brightens up the meal.

Grilled Vegetables

• Charred veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant make a perfect side that complements the Mediterranean theme of this dish.

Pita Bread

• Offer warm pita bread alongside for dipping into tzatziki or to scoop up the filling from the peppers, creating a delightful experience.

Rice Pilaf

• A side of rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can help balance the meal while providing additional texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

To ensure your Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose ripe peppers: Select firm and vibrant bell peppers that are free from blemishes for optimal flavor and presentation.

• Use cooked rice: Incorporating pre-cooked rice ensures even mixing and prevents overcooking during baking.

• Don’t overstuff: Keep some space at the top of each pepper. This allows them to cook evenly without spilling out too much filling.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing. Adjust salt and spices according to your preference for a more personalized flavor.

• Cover when baking: Covering the baking dish with foil helps steam the peppers effectively, keeping them moist while cooking.

• Let cool before serving: Allowing them to rest for a few minutes after baking enhances flavors as it lets juices settle.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Pairing side dishes with Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives, feta, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing touch that complements the stuffed peppers beautifully.

2. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the peppers.

3. Couscous with Herbs: Fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs like parsley and mint brings a light yet flavorful side that pairs well.

4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad includes chickpeas, cucumbers, and herbs, making it both healthy and satisfying.

5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a simple yet elegant addition to your plate.

6. Hummus Platter: A variety of hummus served with fresh vegetables provides an excellent appetizer that complements the main dish nicely.

7. Fattoush Salad: This vibrant salad made with toasted pita chips adds crunchiness and is rich in flavors from fresh vegetables and herbs.

8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with olive oil and grilled until slightly charred makes for a deliciously smoky side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the Rice Prep: Not cooking your rice beforehand can lead to an unpleasant texture in the final dish. Always cook the rice according to package instructions before mixing it with other ingredients.
• Overstuffing the Peppers: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing can cause the peppers to burst during baking. Fill them generously but leave some space for expansion.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to season your chicken mixture properly can result in bland stuffed peppers. Be sure to add enough salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance the flavors.
• Ignoring the Steaming Step: Skipping the water in the baking dish means missing out on tender, juicy peppers. Always pour water into the dish before covering it with foil for steaming.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients directly from the fridge can affect cooking time and texture. Allow your ingredients, especially cooked rice and chicken, to reach room temperature before combining.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container.
• They will last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

• Wrap individual stuffed peppers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a stuffed pepper on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water and place stuffed peppers cut-side down. Cover and cook for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are bell peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of ground chicken, rice, vegetables, olives, and feta cheese, inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes! Feel free to use any color of bell peppers or even poblano peppers for a different flavor profile.

How can I customize Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

You can add different vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or swap out feta cheese for another type of cheese if preferred.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make vegetarian Greek stuffed peppers, replace ground chicken with lentils or quinoa and omit any meat products while keeping all other ingredients.

Final Thoughts

These Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize them with your favorite ingredients or adapt them based on dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the vibrant Mediterranean flavors!