My neighbor once knocked on my door with the most incredible aroma of smoky barbecue wafting from her kitchen. That’s when I discovered these BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers—a delightful twist on two comfort classics combined. The tender chicken infused with rich BBQ flavors nestled inside sweet bell peppers creates an irresistible harmony of taste and texture. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers. If you’re craving something homemade that’s bursting with flavor but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, these stuffed peppers might just become your new go-to.
Why Choose BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Irresistible Flavor Combo: Sweet bell peppers meet smoky, tangy BBQ chicken for a taste that excites your palate. Effortless Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, great for busy weeknights. Healthy & Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, satisfying without heaviness. Versatile Meal: Perfect solo or alongside your favorite sides. Crowd-Pleaser: A unique comfort food twist loved by all ages.
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers Ingredients
For the Stuffed Peppers
- Bell Peppers – Choose vibrant red, yellow, or orange for natural sweetness and a colorful plate.
- Cooked Chicken – Shredded or diced chicken works best; leftover rotisserie chicken is a time-saver.
- BBQ Sauce – Use your favorite brand or homemade for that smoky, tangy punch that defines BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers.
- Onion – Finely chopped to add mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – Minced for a subtle aromatic boost.
- Shredded Cheese – Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully, creating a gooey topping.
For the Filling Mix
- Cooked Rice or Quinoa – Adds heartiness and texture, balancing the tangy BBQ flavors.
- Black Beans – Optional but boosts protein and adds a creamy contrast.
- Corn Kernels – Sweet and crisp, bringing extra bite to the filling.
- Fresh Cilantro – Chopped, to garnish and brighten the dish with fresh herb notes.
Seasonings & Extras
- Smoked Paprika – Enhances the smoky character of the BBQ sauce.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, elevating all the flavors harmoniously.
- Olive Oil – A drizzle for roasting the peppers until tender and lightly charred.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot enough to roast the peppers to tender-crisp perfection and meld flavors beautifully.
- Prepare Peppers: Slice the tops off bell peppers and carefully remove seeds and membranes, creating roomy vessels. Lightly brush with olive oil so they roast evenly and develop golden edges.
- For the Filling Mix:
- Combine Filling: Combine chicken, BBQ sauce, cooked rice or quinoa, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until ingredients are evenly coated and saucy.
- Stuff Peppers: Spoon filling into each prepared pepper, packing it down gently until filled. Set them upright in a baking dish to catch any drips and ensure even cooking.
- Bake Peppers: Place dish in preheated oven and roast at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until peppers are tender with lightly charred edges and the filling is heated through.
- Top with Cheese: Remove peppers, sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top, then return to oven for 5 minutes. Bake until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Let peppers rest for 5 minutes, then top with fresh cilantro. Serve warm, enjoying the sweet pepper shells cradling smoky, tangy BBQ chicken.
Optional: Sprinkle a dash of smoked paprika before serving for extra smoky depth.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- Choose Firm Peppers: Select bell peppers that are firm and evenly shaped to hold the filling without collapsing during baking.
- Don’t Overstuff: Fill the peppers just enough to avoid spilling over and ensure even cooking of the filling inside.
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: To save time and enhance flavor, use leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken for the BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers.
- Balance Moisture: Incorporate cooked rice or quinoa to absorb excess BBQ sauce and prevent sogginess in the filling.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the stuffed peppers rest after baking to let flavors meld and the filling set for a perfect bite every time.
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 3 days in advance by combining the cooked chicken, BBQ sauce, rice or quinoa, beans, corn, onion, garlic, and spices in a tightly sealed container. Refrigerate the mixture to keep it fresh and tasty. The bell peppers can be cleaned and brushed with olive oil the night before as well—just cover them in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful stuffed peppers, simply stuff the peppers with the filling and bake them according to the recipe instructions for a satisfying, home-cooked meal with minimal last-minute effort. Enjoy the convenience of a homemade dinner that’s just as delicious!
Variations & Substitutions for BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Feel free to play around with this recipe, adding your own twist to bring out exciting new flavors!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty heat everyone will love.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use a vegan BBQ sauce to create a plant-based delight.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap traditional cheese for a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick that elevates the flavor.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate chopped spinach or zucchini into the filling for added nutrition and vibrant color.
- Quinoa Boost: Use quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed, nutty flavor that complements the BBQ chicken beautifully.
- Sweet Twist: Drizzle a bit of honey over the filling before baking for a sweet contrast that harmonizes with the BBQ sauce.
- Stuffed Tomatoes: For a twist, swap bell peppers for large tomatoes; they will become soft and flavorful when baked.
- Flavorful Swap: Try different BBQ sauces, like honey chipotle or bourbon-infused, to create a unique taste experience with each batch.
These options ensure you can make this dish your own, inviting creativity into your kitchen while you bask in the deliciousness!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Looking to round out your dinner table with flavors that enhance these hearty stuffed peppers?
- Cool Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the savory BBQ chicken.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for sopping up delicious BBQ sauce and balancing the richness of the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn adds seasonal flair while complementing the pepper’s sweetness.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of juicy fruits like pineapple and mango brightens your meal and adds a refreshing sweetness.
- Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the peppers with a zesty, crisp bite.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and caramelization contrast beautifully with the smoky filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Feel free to mix and match these sides for an unforgettable dinner that’s bursting with flavor and color!
Storage Tips for BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed peppers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw frozen peppers in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Enjoy them warm for a delightful meal!
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bell peppers for BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers?
Look for firm, brightly colored bell peppers with smooth skin and no soft spots. I recommend red, yellow, or orange varieties for their natural sweetness, which perfectly balances the smoky BBQ flavors.
Can I store leftover BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This keeps the peppers fresh while allowing the flavors to meld even more deliciously.
Is it possible to freeze BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers? How should I do it?
Very much so! To freeze, let the stuffed peppers cool completely, then wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes until piping hot.
What if my peppers become soggy during baking? How can I avoid that?
This can happen if the filling is too wet. To prevent sogginess, I recommend using cooked rice or quinoa in the filling to absorb extra moisture. Also, don’t overstuff the peppers—leave a little breathing room for even cooking and texture balance.
Are BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers safe for pets or people with allergies?
While the basic ingredients are generally safe for human consumption, BBQ sauces often contain soy, gluten, and other allergens, so check labels carefully. As for pets, avoid feeding them peppers or BBQ chicken stuffed with spices, as these can upset their stomachs or be harmful. Always keep your furry friends’ diets in mind!
Easy Juicy BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers You’ll Crave Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
- Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Combine chicken, BBQ sauce, rice or quinoa, black beans, corn, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spoon filling into each prepared pepper, packing gently.
- Place peppers upright in a baking dish and roast for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle cheese on top, and return to bake for 5 minutes or until melted.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then top with fresh cilantro before serving.
