Hearty Spinach And Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Savory Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a luscious cheesy spinach and chicken filling promise a delightful meal that bursts with flavor and nutrition.

These colorful peppers deliver a perfect balance of lean protein and fresh vegetables in every bite.

The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and nutrient-packed spinach creates an irresistible blend that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple yet impressive dish.

Each pepper serves as a complete meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

The recipe comes together effortlessly, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks seeking a delicious and nutritious dinner solution.

Grab your apron and get ready to savor every mouthwatering morsel of this crowd-pleasing meal.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 400 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients Needed for Cheesy Spinach and Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers

For Main Ingredients:
  • Bell Peppers: Vibrant color carriers that provide a crisp, edible vessel for the savory filling, selecting firm peppers with smooth skin ensures the best texture.
  • Chicken: Lean protein that brings hearty substance to the dish, choose fresh boneless chicken breasts for easy dicing and consistent cooking.
  • Spinach: Nutrient-packed green that adds moisture and earthy flavor, fresh spinach delivers more vibrant taste compared to frozen varieties.
For Cheese Blend:
  • Cheddar Cheese, Monterey Jack Cheese: Melty companions that create a luxurious, gooey topping, opt for sharp cheddar to enhance depth of flavor and choose high-quality, freshly grated cheese for optimal melting.
For Seasoning:
  • Sage: Aromatic herb that infuses warm, woodsy notes into the filling, use fresh sage leaves for maximum flavor intensity.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential flavor enhancers that balance and elevate the overall taste profile, freshly ground black pepper provides more robust seasoning.

Must-Have Tools for Stuffed Bell Peppers with Chicken & Spinach

  • Large mixing bowl: Perfect for combining chicken, spinach, and cheese.
  • Cutting board: Essential for dicing chicken and preparing ingredients.
  • Sharp knife: Helps chop chicken and spinach with precision.
  • Baking sheet: Provides space for stuffed bell peppers during cooking.
  • Measuring cups: Ensures accurate cheese and ingredient measurements.
  • Spoon or spatula: Useful for mixing ingredients and stuffing peppers.

How to Assemble and Cook Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • Oven Warmup Preparation

Get your oven ready by heating to a cozy 350°F, creating the perfect environment for a delicious meal transformation.

  • Pepper Transformation

Slice bell peppers in half, gently removing seeds and inner membranes to create delicate pepper boats ready for a flavor adventure.

  • Flavor Fusion

Combine tender chicken pieces with vibrant spinach and a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese. Add a whisper of sage and a touch of seasoning to create a mouthwatering mixture that’ll make taste buds dance.

  • Pepper Filling

Lovingly stuff each pepper boat with the incredible chicken mixture, arranging them carefully on a baking sheet like culinary artwork.

  • First Baking Stage

Let the peppers bake for about 45 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook completely and the flavors to mingle and marry.

  • Cheese Finale

Sprinkle an extra layer of cheese on top, returning the peppers to the oven for a final 10-minute dance that creates a golden, melty cheese crown.

  • Serving Moment

Pull out your masterpiece and serve immediately, letting the aroma fill the kitchen with pure comfort and excitement.

Variations to Try for Spinach and Chicken Bell Peppers

  • Swap chicken for ground turkey, lean beef, or plant-based protein to match dietary preferences and keep the dish exciting.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties like gouda, pepper jack, or feta to create unique flavor profiles that elevate the classic recipe.
  • Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of smoked paprika to introduce a delightful heat and complexity to the stuffed bell peppers.
  • Assemble the stuffed peppers up to 24 hours in advance, store covered in the refrigerator, and bake when ready to serve for convenient weeknight dinners.

Serving Ideas for Chicken-Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and added freshness.
  • Pair with Cooling Side: Serve alongside a crisp Greek yogurt or sour cream dip to balance the rich, cheesy flavors.
  • Create a Complete Meal: Add a light quinoa or green salad to complement the stuffed peppers and provide extra nutrition.
  • Wine Pairing Suggestion: Enjoy with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio to cut through the cheesy goodness.

Meal Prep & Storage for Cheesy Stuffed Bell Peppers

  • Store Smartly: Transfer leftovers into airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking, keeping portions separate for easy reheating.
  • Refrigerate Effectively: Stuffed bell peppers maintain freshness for 3-4 days when sealed tightly in the refrigerator at or below 40°F.
  • Freeze with Care: Wrap individual peppers in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Frozen stuffed peppers stay delicious for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat Perfectly: Warm refrigerated peppers in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, ensuring internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
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Hearty Spinach And Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

Hearty Spinach And Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe


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4.7 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Mediterranean-inspired cheesy spinach and chicken stuffed bell peppers deliver robust flavors balanced with nutritious ingredients. Classic comfort meal combines protein and vegetables in one delicious package that satisfies all dinner cravings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 oz / 113 g)
  • 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese (about 4 oz / 113 g)
  • ½ cup cream cheese
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • ½ cup diced onions
  • 2 tbsps minced garlic
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Pepper Preparation: Halve bell peppers lengthwise, carefully removing seeds and membranes to create perfect edible vessels for the flavorful filling.
  2. Filling Assembly: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine diced chicken breast, chopped spinach, cheddar cheese, sage leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
  3. Stuffing and Positioning: Pack each pepper half generously with the chicken-spinach mixture, maintaining a compact and uniform filling. Arrange peppers upright on a rimmed baking sheet to prevent spillage.
  4. Oven Preparation: Position oven rack in the center and preheat to 350°F (175°C) for consistent heat circulation.
  5. Initial Roasting: Bake stuffed peppers for 45 minutes, or until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring complete and thorough cooking.
  6. Cheese Topping: Sprinkle remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the peppers, creating a rich and golden melted cheese layer.
  7. Final Baking: Return peppers to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, allowing cheese to melt completely and develop a bubbling, appetizing surface.
  8. Serving: Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to stabilize the filling. Serve immediately as a vibrant, nutritious main course bursting with flavor and color.

Notes

  • Master Pepper Preparation: Slice peppers carefully to create stable, leak-proof vessels that hold the filling perfectly without falling apart during cooking.
  • Uniform Mixture Technique: Mix chicken and spinach thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly, ensuring each bite delivers consistent seasoning and texture.
  • Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F, guaranteeing safe consumption and preventing undercooked protein.
  • Cheese Melting Strategy: Add cheese in two stages for maximum flavor development and achieve a golden, crispy surface that adds delightful textural contrast.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Michael Rivera

Michael Rivera

Co-Founder & Culinary Instructor

Expertise

  • Classic French Cuisine
  • Artisanal Bread Baking
  • Plant-Based Culinary Innovation
  • Recipe & Menu Development
  • Interactive Online Instruction

Education

The French Culinary Institute (now part of the International Culinary Center)

  • Program: Classic Culinary Arts
  • Focus: An intensive curriculum rooted in classical French techniques, artisanal bread production, and contemporary culinary methods.

Michael Rivera is a seasoned chef and culinary instructor based in San Francisco, CA. Trained in Classic Culinary Arts at The French Culinary Institute, he refined his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, mastering classic French techniques and artisanal bread baking. 

Passionate about making gourmet methods accessible, Michael co-founded thatsmyhome.com to share his expertise through interactive online lessons and innovative, plant-based recipes. He loves blending traditional techniques with modern ideas, encouraging home cooks to enjoy the art of cooking in a relaxed, fun environment.

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