A classic comfort food, stuffed bell peppers filled with creamy mashed potatoes and seasoned chicken breast makes for a hearty, satisfying meal. The sweetness of roasted red peppers perfectly complements the spiced chicken, and the creamy mashed potatoes create a delicious filling that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe is simple to make and great for a weeknight dinner, bringing together familiar ingredients in a fun and tasty way.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Seasoning:
- 133g Chicken breast (cut into small pieces or minced)
- 14g (0.5 Tbsp) Minced garlic
- 4g (0.5 Tbsp) Curry powder
- 2g (0.5 Tbsp) Chili powder
- 60g (3 Tbsp) Tomato pasta sauce
- 2 pinches of salt
- Black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 250g Potato (1 medium-sized potato)
- 3 pinches of salt
- Black pepper to taste
- 2-3 Tbsp Milk (optional, for creamier texture)
For the Paprika Seasoning:
- 1.5 Large red bell peppers (cut in half, seeds removed)
- Olive oil (for brushing the bell peppers)
- A pinch of salt
- Black pepper to taste
Toppings:
- Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, amount as desired)
- Parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Cut the large red bell peppers in half, removing the seeds and membranes.
- Brush the insides lightly with olive oil.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper inside the peppers for seasoning.
Roast the Bell Peppers:
- Place the bell pepper halves cut side up on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes. The peppers should soften but still hold their shape for stuffing.
- Once done, remove the peppers from the oven and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the Potatoes:
- Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Mash the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk for a creamier texture if desired. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Filling
Season and Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat a small amount of olive oil.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with curry powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Add Tomato Pasta Sauce:
- Stir in the tomato pasta sauce and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. This will give the chicken a rich, tangy flavor.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Stuff the Bell Peppers
Assemble the Stuffed Peppers:
- Take the pre-roasted bell peppers and fill each half with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
- Next, add a layer of the seasoned chicken mixture on top of the mashed potatoes in each bell pepper.
Add the Cheese:
- Top each stuffed bell pepper with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt and become bubbly, adding a delicious layer of flavor.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
- Place the stuffed bell peppers back into the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden on top.
Garnish:
- Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve:
- Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot. They can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips
- Bell Peppers: Choose large bell peppers for better stuffing and presentation. Red bell peppers, in particular, have a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and creamy potatoes.
- Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, you can add chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture or increase the chili powder for an extra kick.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a richer mashed potato filling, you can replace the milk with a knob of butter or a splash of cream. Leaving the potato skins on adds texture and extra nutrients.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. The chicken also provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and selenium.
- Potatoes: Packed with carbohydrates for energy, potatoes also provide a good amount of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Bell Peppers: Rich in vitamin C, bell peppers are excellent for boosting the immune system and maintaining healthy skin.
- Cheese: Mozzarella provides calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth, as well as protein for tissue repair.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those who are gluten-sensitive or following a gluten-free diet.
- Low-Carb Option: You can reduce the amount of potatoes and substitute them with cauliflower mash for a lower-carb alternative.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Leftover stuffed peppers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: These stuffed peppers freeze well. To freeze, place them in an airtight container and store them for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of meat for the stuffing?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
2. Can I make the stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed peppers up to the baking stage and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, you can use cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese to give the stuffed peppers a unique flavor.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
Yes, you can add diced tomatoes, onions, or even spinach to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
These Stuffed Bell Peppers with Chicken and Mashed Potatoes offer a flavorful and hearty meal that brings together creamy mashed potatoes, spiced chicken, and roasted bell peppers. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave a comforting meal. Enjoy these stuffed peppers as a complete meal or pair them with a side dish for extra variety.