The sweet and savory magic of teriyaki chicken takes center stage in this satisfying stuffed pepper recipe. With juicy diced chicken, fluffy jasmine rice, fresh pineapple, and crunchy vegetables, each bite bursts with bold, balanced flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more. Not only is this dish visually striking thanks to the colorful bell peppers, but it also delivers major comfort and nourishment in a single serving. Perfect for meal prep, a quick weeknight dinner, or a dish to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, these Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a healthy and flavor-packed twist on a classic favorite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 large bell peppers (any color)
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2 cups cooked jasmine rice
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
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1 cup diced pineapple
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1 cup shredded carrots
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3 green onions, chopped
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1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté chicken until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add pineapple, carrots, and green onions to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
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Stir in teriyaki sauce and simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
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Add cooked rice and sesame oil, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly. Remove from heat.
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Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into the hollowed bell peppers and place them upright in a baking dish.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, until peppers are tender.
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Remove foil, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Fusion of East Meets West in One Colorful Dish
Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers is a recipe that brings together the bold, umami-rich flavors of Japanese cuisine with the comfort and versatility of Western-style stuffed peppers. Traditionally, stuffed peppers are known across many cultures—from Mediterranean rice-filled varieties to Tex-Mex beef and cheese combinations—but this version introduces a delightful Asian twist with teriyaki-marinated chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and juicy pineapple.
This dish reflects how global cooking continues to evolve. It’s a modern, accessible take on fusion cuisine that doesn’t require exotic ingredients or complex cooking techniques. Whether you’re a home cook looking to switch things up or someone trying to incorporate more flavorful and wholesome meals into your weekly routine, this recipe is a colorful and satisfying answer.
Why This Recipe Works
There are a few core reasons why this recipe has become a go-to favorite among home cooks and food bloggers alike:
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Balanced Flavor Profile: The teriyaki sauce brings a beautiful mix of sweet, salty, and umami. Combined with savory chicken, naturally sweet pineapple, crunchy carrots, and the mellow earthiness of rice, each bite is well-balanced and exciting.
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Satisfying and Nutritious: With lean protein, complex carbs, fiber-rich vegetables, and minimal added fats, this meal delivers both satiety and nutrition. It’s the kind of hearty dinner that won’t leave you feeling heavy.
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Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved: The sweetness of the teriyaki and pineapple makes it appealing to picky eaters, while the presentation inside a bell pepper shell is visually engaging.
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Great for Meal Prep: These peppers reheat beautifully and can be stored easily in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can double the batch and enjoy lunch or dinner for days.
Ingredient Highlights and Nutritional Benefits
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating its signature taste and adding nutritional value.
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Bell Peppers: Naturally low in calories but high in vitamins A and C, these colorful veggies are rich in antioxidants and provide a slightly sweet, roasted flavor when baked.
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Chicken Breast: A lean source of high-quality protein, chicken breast helps in muscle maintenance and gives the dish a hearty bite.
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Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and soft, jasmine rice complements Asian flavors while keeping the dish gluten-free and satisfying.
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Teriyaki Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade versions made from soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. It delivers that signature Japanese flavor without overpowering the other components.
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Pineapple: Besides adding sweetness and juiciness, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
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Sesame Oil and Seeds: These add depth of flavor and a pleasant nutty finish, along with a dose of healthy fats.
Easy Customization for Every Palate
One of the beauties of Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers is how versatile it is. Here are some creative ways to modify the dish to suit different dietary needs or preferences:
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the chicken for extra-firm tofu or tempeh. Use a vegan-friendly teriyaki sauce and you’re good to go.
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Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly: Skip the rice and bulk up the filling with cauliflower rice, mushrooms, or zucchini for a lower-carb version.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure your teriyaki sauce is gluten-free (some soy sauces contain wheat) or make your own using tamari or coconut aminos.
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Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños to the filling or a drizzle of sriracha over the top for a little kick.
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Cheesy: Though not traditional in teriyaki dishes, adding shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta on top can create a fusion twist that cheese-lovers will enjoy.
How to Store and Reheat
This dish is ideal for leftovers and meal prep. Here’s how to make the most of your batch:
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Refrigeration: Once cooled, store the stuffed peppers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.
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Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed peppers individually in foil or freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To retain the texture and flavor, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. For faster reheating, microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying.
Perfect for Entertaining and Special Occasions
Whether you’re hosting a small dinner party, contributing to a potluck, or planning a themed family night, these Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers are an excellent choice. Their presentation—bright peppers overflowing with saucy, savory filling—makes them look far more elaborate than they actually are to make.
You can also prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the peppers just before baking. This reduces last-minute stress while still delivering that freshly baked taste and aroma.
Pair them with a crisp Asian-style slaw, steamed edamame, or even a miso soup starter for a complete and impressive meal.
Tips for Success
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Choose the Right Peppers: Go for large, even-sized bell peppers that can stand upright. Red, yellow, and orange varieties tend to be sweeter and more tender when roasted than green ones.
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Cook Rice in Advance: To streamline the process, cook your rice a day ahead or use pre-cooked rice.
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Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible, avoid overfilling the peppers to prevent them from falling apart during baking.
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Cover Then Uncover: Covering the peppers for most of the bake time helps them soften. Removing the foil in the last few minutes allows the tops to brown slightly and gives the sesame seeds a nice toasted finish.
Conclusion
Teriyaki Chicken Stuffed Peppers are more than just a pretty plate—they represent everything we love about cooking at home: creativity, nutrition, comfort, and delicious results. By combining simple ingredients with bold flavors, you get a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for one, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish will never disappoint. Give it a try, make it your own, and let the irresistible aroma of teriyaki fill your kitchen with warmth and joy.