Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Tex-Mex Dish

When you’re craving a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with flavor, Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers should be at the top of your list. Imagine succulent shredded chicken mixed with savory enchilada sauce, black beans, sweet corn, and spices—all stuffed into vibrant bell peppers and topped with melted cheese. The result? A mouthwatering, Tex-Mex-inspired meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers from start to finish. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a fun twist on traditional enchiladas, or a flavorful option for meal prep, this recipe has got you covered. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, these stuffed peppers are the perfect combination of comfort and healthy eating.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers

Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s talk about why Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers are such an amazing dish to add to your cooking repertoire. There are a number of reasons why this dish is a fan favorite:

1. Packed with Flavor

The combination of shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and a variety of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder creates a taste explosion in every bite. This dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors that make it irresistible.

2. Healthy and Nutritious

These stuffed peppers are a great source of lean protein from the chicken and black beans, while the bell peppers themselves are packed with vitamins like vitamin C. The addition of corn brings in a touch of natural sweetness and extra fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

3. Quick and Easy to Prepare

One of the best things about Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers is how easy they are to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a relatively short prep time, you can have this dish on the table in about 40 minutes. Plus, you can customize the filling to your preferences, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned home cooks.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to plan your meals in advance, Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic choice. They reheat well and are great for making in bulk. Whether you’re packing lunch for the week or need an easy dinner ready to go, this dish will keep you satisfied all week long.

5. Customizable to Your Taste

The beauty of Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers is that they’re highly customizable. You can switch out ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For example, you can use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken, swap the cheese for a dairy-free option, or add more veggies for an extra boost of nutrients.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers

To make Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 cup enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing and brushing)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the stuffed peppers will cook evenly and the cheese will melt perfectly. Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent the peppers from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Next, slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes inside. You want to create a hollow space inside each pepper so that you can fill them with your delicious chicken enchilada mixture. Lightly brush the inside of each pepper with some olive oil to help them cook more evenly and enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, black beans, corn kernels, and the seasonings: cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined. This is the heart of the Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers—a flavorful and satisfying filling.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Now, fill each bell pepper with the chicken mixture. Don’t worry about overstuffing; you want each pepper to be packed with the filling, but still allow room for the cheese. Once the peppers are stuffed, sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top of each one. This cheesy topping will melt and become bubbly during the baking process, creating a delicious golden crust.

Step 5: Bake the Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, which allows the peppers to soften and the filling to heat through. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the peppers are slightly golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the peppers are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. If you like, add sliced avocado on top for extra creaminess. Serve with sour cream, salsa, or extra enchilada sauce for dipping.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers

To help you make the most delicious Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers, here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken

If you’re looking to save time, rotisserie chicken is your best friend. It’s already cooked, flavorful, and easy to shred. Plus, it makes this dish even quicker to prepare, so you can have a homemade meal in no time.

2. Customize Your Spice Level

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Adjust the level of chili powder to your preference for a mild or spicier flavor.

3. Try Different Cheeses

While shredded Mexican cheese blend is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper Jack cheese adds a nice kick, while cheddar gives the dish a sharper, richer flavor.

4. Add More Veggies

To make your stuffed peppers even more nutritious, consider adding extra veggies to the filling. Diced tomatoes, zucchini, or even spinach can be mixed into the chicken mixture for added texture and flavor.

5. Make It Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always double-check the ingredients you use, especially the enchilada sauce, to ensure it’s gluten-free. Many store-bought versions contain gluten, so making your own enchilada sauce can be a great alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the peppers ahead of time, cover them with foil, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, simply pop them in the oven and bake as directed.

2. Can I freeze these stuffed peppers?

Absolutely! After baking and cooling, wrap the peppers individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

3. Can I use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken?

Yes, you can use ground chicken in place of shredded chicken. Just cook the chicken first, breaking it up into crumbles, and then mix it with the other ingredients for the filling.

4. What can I serve with Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers are great on their own, but you can serve them with a side of rice, guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad. You could also add a side of chips and salsa for a more complete meal.

5. Can I use other types of peppers?

While bell peppers are the most common choice for this recipe, you can use other types of peppers, such as poblano peppers or Anaheim peppers, for a different flavor. Just make sure the peppers are large enough to stuff.

Conclusion

Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers are a fantastic way to enjoy all the bold, comforting flavors of enchiladas without the hassle of rolling tortillas. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a casual gathering, these stuffed peppers are sure to impress. So, grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a Tex-Mex treat that’s as delicious as it is simple to make!

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