Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Lunch

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

0 comments

The fiery heat of Buffalo sauce meets cool, creamy Greek yogurt in these irresistible Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers. Juicy shredded chicken, melty provolone, and a sprinkle of feta pack bold, cheesy flavor into every veggie-filled bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or your next game-day spread, this recipe is the healthier twist you didn’t know you needed. Skip the wings and go for the bell pepper boats — all the taste, none of the guilt!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 3 bell peppers (any color; halved and deseeded)

  • ⅔ cup classic hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (from about 2 medium breasts)

  • ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt

  • ¾ cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (divided)

  • ½ cup crumbled feta or blue cheese

  • ¼ cup finely chopped green onions

  • Water (just enough to coat bottom of baking dish)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.

  2. Slice peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Lay them cut side up in the dish.

  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix hot sauce, butter, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until butter melts, then remove from heat.

  4. Add shredded chicken to the saucepan and stir to coat. Then mix in Greek yogurt and ¼ cup of the shredded cheese.

  5. Spoon the buffalo chicken filling evenly into each pepper half. Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese.

  6. Pour a small amount of water into the baking dish to just cover the bottom.

  7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until peppers are fork-tender and cheese is melted.

  8. Remove from oven and top with feta (or blue cheese) and green onions. Serve warm, optionally with extra Greek yogurt.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal per pepper half | Servings: 6 pepper halves

The Inspiration Behind Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Buffalo chicken has long been a staple at game-day parties and casual gatherings. Known for its fiery kick and rich buttery flavor, Buffalo sauce originally gained popularity through classic chicken wings served at a bar in Buffalo, New York. But while traditional wings are undeniably tasty, they’re not always the healthiest option—deep-fried, drenched in butter, and typically paired with rich dressings.

That’s where this recipe for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers comes in. It takes the irresistible flavor of Buffalo wings and transforms it into a wholesome, satisfying meal. By swapping out fried wings for tender bell peppers and using shredded chicken with Greek yogurt, you get all the bold flavor without the added calories or grease.

It’s a meal that’s comforting, indulgent, and yet surprisingly balanced—perfect for those who crave something hearty but want to keep it nutritious.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish is more than just a fun fusion; it’s an intelligent one. The balance of spicy, creamy, tangy, and cheesy flavors is what sets it apart. Here’s why it shines:

  • High-Protein & Low-Carb: Using shredded chicken and Greek yogurt provides a protein-packed base that’s also light on carbs. Perfect for low-carb, keto, or high-protein diets.
  • Vegetable-Based Vessel: Instead of heavy bread, pasta, or tortillas, we use bell peppers as the “container,” which means you’re eating more vegetables without even trying.
  • Balanced Flavor Profile: The heat of the Buffalo sauce is mellowed by Greek yogurt and melted cheese, giving you a creamy, crave-worthy taste without overwhelming spice.
  • Customizable: Whether you want it mild, hot, cheesy, dairy-free, or vegetarian, this recipe can be easily adapted to your preferences.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for weekly meal prep or next-day lunches.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Let’s dive a bit deeper into why this recipe is not only delicious but also good for you.

Bell Peppers:
These colorful veggies are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. They add natural sweetness, enhance the presentation, and serve as a nutritious alternative to starch-based sides.

Shredded Chicken:
Lean, white meat chicken is an excellent source of protein and amino acids, necessary for muscle repair and immune health. It’s also versatile and absorbs flavors beautifully.

Greek Yogurt:
Used instead of cream cheese or sour cream, nonfat plain Greek yogurt offers a probiotic boost along with protein, calcium, and a tangy taste that complements spicy sauces.

Buffalo Sauce:
While hot sauce may not offer a ton of nutrients, it does contain capsaicin—an antioxidant found in chili peppers that may aid in metabolism and appetite control.

Cheese (Provolone, Mozzarella, Feta):
The combination of melty and crumbly cheese gives this dish a satisfying, creamy texture. Using a moderate amount still delivers comfort without overwhelming the health benefits.

Cooking Method and Pro Tips

This recipe is baked, not fried—an instant health upgrade. Baking not only makes it easier (no messy oil or frying pans) but also preserves the structural integrity of the bell peppers, giving you a warm, roasted finish that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken mixture.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Choose Medium-to-Large Peppers: They’re easier to fill and hold their shape well during baking.
  • Lay Peppers Flat (Cut Side Up): This method ensures even cooking and stability, which is essential for keeping your filling in place.
  • Don’t Overcook: 30–35 minutes is just right. Overbaking will make the peppers too soft and watery.
  • Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience: A store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver if you’re short on prep time.
  • Add a Water Layer in Baking Dish: Just a thin layer at the bottom helps steam the peppers slightly and prevents burning or sticking.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are filling enough to be served as a standalone entrée, but they also play nicely with other dishes. Here are some great pairing ideas:

  • Side Salad: A crisp garden salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing keeps the meal fresh and balances the heat.
  • Cauliflower Rice or Mashed Cauliflower: For an ultra-low-carb meal, cauliflower sides are a creamy, neutral base.
  • Oven-Roasted Sweet Potato Fries: If you’re not counting carbs, these offer a slightly sweet counterpoint to the spicy peppers.
  • Pickled Veggies or Slaw: The acid in pickled vegetables or vinegar-based coleslaw complements the richness of the filling beautifully.

For toppings, consider a drizzle of ranch or extra Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for a bit of crunch.

Make It Your Own: Variations and Substitutes

One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easy it is to tweak.

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for canned chickpeas or lentils and use dairy-free yogurt and cheese.
  • Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mix or use a hotter sauce like habanero.
  • No Dairy?: Use coconut yogurt and a dairy-free cheese blend.
  • Add Grains: Want more volume? Mix in cooked quinoa or rice to the filling for a heartier version.
  • Mini Peppers for Appetizers: Make it party-friendly by using mini bell peppers. Bake for less time and serve as finger food.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This dish checks all the boxes for a meal prep superstar:

  • Storage: Leftovers stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze individually wrapped peppers for up to 3 months.
  • Easy Reheating: Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm. No microwave mushiness here.

If you’re cooking for one or two, make the full batch and enjoy the leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved

Despite the heat of the Buffalo sauce, many kids enjoy these peppers—especially if you use a milder hot sauce or cut it with a little more Greek yogurt. The cheesy, creamy center masks any overwhelming spice, and the fun presentation in colorful bell peppers often makes them more appealing to little ones.

Let the kids help by sprinkling on the cheese or scooping the filling. Involving them in the cooking process can increase their interest in trying new flavors.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are more than just a trendy low-carb meal—they’re a testament to how healthy eating can still be bold, flavorful, and completely satisfying. From their protein-rich filling to their vibrant veggie shell, these peppers offer an ideal solution for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or game-day parties.

Whether you’re following a special diet or just looking for a lighter way to enjoy your favorite flavors, this dish delivers everything you love about Buffalo chicken—without the grease or guilt. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked on this spicy, cheesy, and surprisingly healthy comfort food.

 

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*