🍽️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for a healthy, colorful dinner idea? These Pesto Chicken Stuffed Peppers are packed with protein, flavor, and fresh ingredients. Sweet bell peppers are filled with shredded chicken, creamy pesto, and melted mozzarella — a comforting meal that’s both nutritious and easy to make.
Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will be your new go-to!
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
🌿 Ingredient Tips
- Bell Peppers: Choose firm, shiny peppers with smooth skin and bright color. Avoid soft spots — they mean overripe.
- Chicken: Freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken both work perfectly.
- Pesto: Homemade pesto adds unbeatable freshness, but store-bought is a great time-saver.
- Cheese: Mozzarella gives that perfect melt; Parmesan adds a savory kick.
👩🍳 How to Make Pesto Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice off the tops of the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes.
- Brush the outsides lightly with olive oil and place them upright in a baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix together:
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- ½ cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- Add salt and pepper to taste and mix until everything is evenly coated in pesto.
Step 3: Stuff and Bake
- Spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper. Gently press it down so it’s well-packed.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a golden crust.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the tops are golden and the peppers are tender.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.
💡 Tips for Perfect Stuffed Peppers
- Cut evenly: Slice the tops straight so they sit upright and bake evenly.
- Prevent burning: Always cover with foil for the first 25 minutes.
- Even cooking: Don’t overcrowd the dish — leave a bit of space between each pepper.
- Cheese lovers: Add an extra sprinkle of mozzarella before serving!
🔄 Variations to Try
🦃 Swap the Protein
- Use ground turkey for a lighter twist.
- Try lean ground beef for a heartier version.
- Make it vegetarian with soy-based or pea protein “chicken” alternatives.
🧀 Experiment with Cheese
- Add feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor.
- Mix mozzarella and provolone for extra creaminess.
🌶️ Boost the Flavor
- Add red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
- Sprinkle with oregano or thyme for an herby aroma.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot sauce for a bold kick.
🧊 How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerate:
- Place leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze:
- Let peppers cool completely.
- Wrap each in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheat:
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil.
- Microwave: 2–3 minutes on medium power (quick but softer texture).
⏱️ Quick Reference
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 35 mins | 50 mins | 4 peppers |
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the stuffed peppers, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed — just add 5 extra minutes to the cook time.
Q: Can I use other peppers?
Absolutely. Bell peppers are classic, but poblano or Anaheim peppers add a mild, smoky spice.
Q: What side dishes go well with this?
Try a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
🧡 Serving Ideas
- Garnish with extra basil leaves or a drizzle of pesto.
- Serve with brown rice or quinoa for a hearty plate.
- Pair with a glass of chilled lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing combo.
🌟 Final Thoughts
These Pesto Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a colorful, nutrient-rich meal that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. They’re full of Mediterranean flavor — basil, garlic, and melted cheese blending into each bite.
