Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Dinner time at our house can sometimes feel like navigating a culinary tightrope. Between picky eaters, dietary preferences, and the constant quest for something both healthy and exciting, finding a meal that ticks all the boxes can be a real challenge. That’s why discovering these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers felt like striking gold! From the moment the aroma of spicy buffalo sauce and savory chicken filled the kitchen, I knew this recipe was a winner. My family, even the ones who usually shy away from anything “too healthy,” devoured these peppers with gusto. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers, combined with the creamy, flavorful buffalo chicken filling, made for a visually appealing and incredibly satisfying meal. What I especially loved, besides the sheer deliciousness, is that these stuffed peppers are naturally dairy-free, gluten-free, low-carb, and even Whole30 and paleo compliant. This means they fit seamlessly into almost any dietary lifestyle, making them a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dinner without any of the guilt. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply seeking a healthy and delicious weeknight meal, these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Prepare to be amazed by how much flavor and satisfaction can be packed into one colorful pepper!

Ingredients

This recipe for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers is incredibly simple and relies on readily available ingredients. Let’s break down each component and explore why they are essential to creating this flavorful and wholesome dish.

• 3 large bell peppers – any color, cut in half lengthwise and seeds removed: Bell peppers are the star of the show, providing a vibrant and slightly sweet vessel for the delicious buffalo chicken filling. You can choose any color you prefer – red, yellow, orange, or green – or a mix for a visually stunning presentation. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly more bitter and “peppery” flavor. The size of the peppers is important to ensure they cook evenly and can hold a generous amount of filling. Cutting them lengthwise creates perfect boat-like shapes, maximizing the surface area for the filling and allowing for even baking. Thoroughly removing the seeds and membranes is crucial to avoid any bitterness and to create a clean cavity for the stuffing.
• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken – a rotisserie chicken will be about the perfect amount of chicken for this recipe: Cooked shredded chicken is the protein powerhouse of this recipe. It provides a lean and satisfying base for the buffalo flavor. Using pre-cooked chicken, like a rotisserie chicken, is a fantastic time-saver and adds incredible flavor. Rotisserie chickens are often seasoned and roasted to perfection, imparting a rich and savory depth to the stuffing. If you don’t have a rotisserie chicken on hand, you can easily cook your own chicken breasts or thighs and shred them. Poaching, baking, or even grilling chicken are all great options. Aim for about 4 cups of shredded chicken, which is roughly the amount you’ll get from a standard rotisserie chicken. Using chicken thighs will result in a richer and more flavorful stuffing due to their higher fat content, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option.
• 1 cup paleo mayonnaise, either homemade or store bought avocado mayo: Paleo mayonnaise is the secret ingredient that brings creaminess and richness to the buffalo chicken filling without relying on dairy. Traditional mayonnaise is typically made with soybean oil and eggs, which while not inherently unhealthy, may not align with paleo or Whole30 guidelines. Paleo mayonnaise, often made with avocado oil or olive oil, is a healthier and more wholesome alternative. Avocado mayo, in particular, is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and has a creamy texture that perfectly complements the buffalo sauce. You can easily find store-bought paleo mayonnaise brands, or for a truly homemade touch, try making your own! Homemade paleo mayo is surprisingly simple to make with an immersion blender and just a few ingredients like avocado oil, egg yolk, lemon juice, and salt. The mayonnaise acts as a binding agent for the shredded chicken and spices, creating a moist and flavorful stuffing.
• 1/2 cup hot sauce or buffalo sauce – I love Frank’s red hot, but a Whole30 compatible buffalo sauce also works: The star of the flavor profile – hot sauce or buffalo sauce! This is what gives these stuffed peppers their signature spicy and tangy kick. Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice and a widely available option. It provides a balanced heat and vinegar-based flavor that is quintessential buffalo. However, for those following a Whole30 or strictly paleo diet, it’s important to choose a compatible buffalo sauce. Many commercially available buffalo sauces contain butter or dairy, which are not allowed on these diets. Luckily, there are numerous Whole30 and paleo-friendly buffalo sauce options available, often made with compliant ingredients like ghee or coconut oil instead of butter. You can also easily make your own homemade Whole30 buffalo sauce using hot sauce, ghee, and spices. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. For a spicier kick, opt for a hotter variety of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a foundational savory flavor to the buffalo chicken filling. It’s a convenient way to add the pungent and aromatic essence of garlic without the hassle of mincing fresh cloves. Garlic powder blends seamlessly into the mixture and infuses the entire filling with its characteristic savory notes. Garlic is also known for its health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and potential anti-inflammatory effects.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds another layer of savory depth and complexity to the flavor profile. It complements the garlic powder and enhances the overall umami richness of the stuffing. Onion powder is derived from dehydrated onions and provides a concentrated onion flavor that is both convenient and versatile. Onions, like garlic, are also packed with nutrients and antioxidants, contributing to the overall healthfulness of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Salt is an essential seasoning that enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients. Kosher salt, with its larger crystals, is often preferred by chefs for its clean taste and ease of use. Salt not only seasons the dish but also helps to balance the acidity of the hot sauce and bring out the natural sweetness of the bell peppers. Adjust the amount of salt to your personal preference, keeping in mind that the hot sauce may already contain some salt.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and a hint of spice that complements the hot sauce and other seasonings. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more robust flavor, but pre-ground black pepper works just fine as well. Pepper enhances the overall complexity of the flavor profile and adds a touch of depth to the savory notes.
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional): Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that has a cheesy, nutty flavor. It’s a popular ingredient in vegan and dairy-free cooking, providing a delicious umami boost and a subtle cheesy note without any dairy. While optional, nutritional yeast adds a wonderful layer of flavor to the buffalo chicken stuffing, making it even more satisfying and savory. It also provides some added nutritional benefits, being a good source of B vitamins and protein. If you don’t have nutritional yeast on hand or prefer to omit it, the recipe will still be delicious without it.
• 1 bunch of green onions, white and light green parts thinly sliced – plus more for garnish: Green onions, also known as scallions, add a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a vibrant green color to the stuffing. Both the white and light green parts are used in the filling, providing a subtle bite and a touch of sweetness. Green onions are also used as a garnish, adding a final flourish of freshness and visual appeal to the finished stuffed peppers. Their mild flavor complements the spicy buffalo chicken and adds a pleasant contrast in texture.
• Whole30 ranch dressing for garnish: Ranch dressing is the classic cooling counterpart to spicy buffalo chicken. However, traditional ranch dressing is typically dairy-based. To keep this recipe dairy-free and Whole30 compliant, we opt for a Whole30 ranch dressing. There are many store-bought Whole30 ranch dressings available, often made with cashew cream or avocado oil for creaminess. You can also easily make your own homemade Whole30 ranch dressing using paleo mayonnaise, herbs, and spices. The ranch dressing provides a cool and creamy counterpoint to the spicy buffalo chicken, balancing the flavors and adding a delightful finishing touch.
• Fresh herbs for garnish: Fresh herbs add a final layer of freshness, aroma, and visual appeal to the finished stuffed peppers. Chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives are all excellent choices. They provide a pop of color and a burst of herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the stuffing and the coolness of the ranch dressing. Fresh herbs elevate the dish from a simple weeknight meal to something truly special and restaurant-worthy.

Instructions

Making these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers is surprisingly easy and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly cooked, flavor-packed peppers every time.

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Preheating the oven is crucial for ensuring that the stuffed peppers cook evenly. Setting the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) provides the ideal temperature for roasting the peppers until they are tender and the filling is heated through and slightly browned. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the peppers inside for optimal cooking results.
2. Arrange cut and de-seeded bell peppers in a lightly greased large skillet or baking dish, cut side up. Choose a large skillet or baking dish that is oven-safe and large enough to comfortably hold all six pepper halves in a single layer. Lightly greasing the dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil prevents the peppers from sticking and ensures easy cleanup. Arranging the peppers cut-side up allows for easy filling and ensures that the buffalo chicken mixture stays inside the peppers during baking. Using a skillet or baking dish with some depth is helpful to contain any juices that may release from the peppers during cooking.
3. In a large bowl combine pre-cooked shredded chicken, mayonnaise, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, nutritional yeast, and green onions. Mix to thoroughly combine. This step is where the magic happens! In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the buffalo chicken filling. Start with the pre-cooked shredded chicken, then add the paleo mayonnaise for creaminess, the hot sauce for that signature buffalo kick, garlic powder and onion powder for savory depth, salt and black pepper for seasoning, nutritional yeast for a cheesy umami boost (optional), and thinly sliced green onions for freshness and a mild oniony flavor. Use a large spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly combined and the shredded chicken is well coated in the sauce. Ensure there are no clumps of mayonnaise or spices and that everything is nicely incorporated.
4. Taste and add more hot sauce or salt if desired. This is a crucial step for customizing the flavor to your personal preferences. Take a small spoonful of the buffalo chicken mixture and taste it. Assess the spice level and saltiness. If you prefer a spicier filling, add a little more hot sauce, a teaspoon at a time, and mix again, tasting after each addition until you reach your desired level of heat. If you feel the mixture needs more salt, add a pinch of salt at a time, mixing and tasting until it’s perfectly seasoned to your liking. Remember that you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away, so it’s best to add gradually and taste frequently.
5. Fill prepared peppers with the buffalo chicken mixture – making sure to pack it in. Now it’s time to stuff the bell peppers! Using a spoon, scoop generous amounts of the buffalo chicken mixture into each pepper half, filling them to the brim. Don’t be shy – pack the filling in firmly to maximize the amount of deliciousness in each pepper. You want to create a substantial and satisfying stuffed pepper. Ensure that the filling is evenly distributed among all the pepper halves.
6. Cover baking dish and bake stuffed peppers for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20 minutes – until peppers are tender and the stuffing is bubbling and slightly browned. Covering the baking dish with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking helps to steam the peppers and allows them to soften and cook through without drying out. The foil traps moisture and creates a gentle cooking environment. After 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the peppers to roast and slightly caramelize, and for the stuffing to brown and bubble. Bake for another 20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender when pierced with a fork and the buffalo chicken stuffing is heated through, bubbling around the edges, and slightly browned on top. The total baking time may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of your bell peppers and your oven’s performance.
7. Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing, thinly sliced green onion, and fresh herbs if desired and serve! Once the stuffed peppers are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. To finish them off, drizzle each pepper generously with Whole30 ranch dressing. The cool and creamy ranch dressing provides a perfect counterpoint to the spicy buffalo chicken. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh oniony bite and a pop of color. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives for added freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy these flavorful and wholesome Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields 6 servings.

Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper half

Approximate Nutrition Facts per Serving (estimated):

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories (depending on mayonnaise and chicken fat content)
• Net Carbs: Approximately 8-12 grams net carbs (depending on pepper and sauce)
• Protein: Approximately 40-50 grams
• Fat: Approximately 25-35 grams (primarily healthy fats from avocado mayo)

Important Notes:

• These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, portion sizes, and cooking methods.
• This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats, making it suitable for keto, paleo, Whole30, and low-carb diets.
• It is also dairy-free and gluten-free.
• For the most accurate nutritional information, it is recommended to use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients and brands you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

This recipe is relatively quick to prepare, especially if you are using pre-cooked shredded chicken like rotisserie chicken. The majority of the time is spent baking in the oven, allowing you to focus on other tasks while dinner cooks itself.

How to Serve

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a complete and satisfying meal on their own. However, you can enhance your dining experience by pairing them with complementary side dishes and garnishes.

• Serve as a standalone meal: These stuffed peppers are hearty enough to be enjoyed as a satisfying and complete meal, especially for a weeknight dinner.
• Side Salad: A crisp and refreshing side salad is a perfect accompaniment to the richness of the stuffed peppers. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, a Caesar salad (dairy-free version, of course!), or a cucumber and tomato salad. The salad provides a fresh and light contrast to the savory and spicy peppers.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are excellent low-carb and healthy side options. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious caramelized flavor. Season them simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or add a sprinkle of garlic powder or herbs.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a truly low-carb meal, serve these stuffed peppers with cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice is a versatile and healthy alternative to traditional rice and pairs well with the flavors of buffalo chicken. You can sauté cauliflower rice with a little olive oil and seasonings for a simple and satisfying side.
• Dairy-Free Coleslaw: A creamy and crunchy dairy-free coleslaw can be a refreshing and flavorful side dish. Look for dairy-free coleslaw recipes that use paleo mayonnaise or cashew cream for the creamy dressing. The coolness and tanginess of coleslaw complement the spiciness of the stuffed peppers beautifully.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Extra Ranch Dressing: Provide extra Whole30 ranch dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
  • Hot Sauce: For those who like extra heat, offer a bottle of hot sauce on the table.
  • Blue Cheese Crumbles (Dairy-Free): While this recipe is dairy-free, if you are not strictly avoiding dairy, a sprinkle of dairy-free blue cheese crumbles can add a tangy and salty element.
  • Chopped Celery and Carrots: Serve with a side of chopped celery and carrots for a classic buffalo chicken experience.
  • Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity.

Additional Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

1. Don’t Overcook the Peppers: Bake the peppers until they are tender-crisp, not mushy. Overcooked peppers will lose their texture and become watery. Check for doneness by piercing a pepper with a fork. It should be tender but still hold its shape.
2. Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. You can also use different types of hot sauce to vary the flavor profile. For a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or a combination of hot sauce and tomato sauce. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a hotter variety of hot sauce.
3. Use Quality Mayonnaise: The mayonnaise is a key ingredient for creaminess and flavor. Choose a high-quality paleo mayonnaise or avocado mayo for the best results. Using a good quality mayonnaise will significantly impact the overall taste and texture of the filling.
4. Make Ahead and Freeze: These stuffed peppers can be prepped ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed peppers and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze cooked stuffed peppers. Let them cool completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
5. Experiment with Fillings: While buffalo chicken is delicious, you can experiment with other fillings. Try using ground turkey, ground beef, or even vegetarian options like black beans and corn. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as diced celery, carrots, or mushrooms. Get creative and customize the filling to your liking!

FAQ Section

Q1: Are these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers really dairy-free?

A: Yes, absolutely! This recipe is designed to be completely dairy-free. We use paleo mayonnaise instead of traditional mayonnaise and Whole30 ranch dressing, both of which are made without dairy. Ensure you check the labels of your mayonnaise and ranch dressing to confirm they are dairy-free, especially if purchasing store-bought versions.

Q2: Can I make these stuffed peppers spicier or milder?

A: Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking. For a spicier version, use a hotter hot sauce, add more hot sauce to the filling, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, use a mild buffalo sauce, reduce the amount of hot sauce, or use a combination of hot sauce and tomato sauce to dilute the spice. Taste the filling before stuffing the peppers and adjust the spice level as needed.

Q3: Can I use different types of bell peppers?

A: Yes, you can use any color of bell pepper you prefer – red, yellow, orange, or green. A mix of colors makes for a visually appealing dish. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green peppers have a slightly more bitter flavor. Choose peppers that are firm and large enough to hold a good amount of filling.

Q4: Can I make these stuffed peppers vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, with some modifications. To make them vegetarian, you can substitute the shredded chicken with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled firm tofu. For a vegan version, ensure you use vegan mayonnaise and ranch dressing, and use a plant-based chicken substitute or the lentil/bean/tofu options mentioned above. Nutritional yeast will enhance the cheesy flavor in a vegan version.

Q5: How do I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

A: Store leftover cooked stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through, or in the microwave. You can also enjoy them cold as a leftover lunch!

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