Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

These Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With shredded chicken and zesty buffalo sauce, these stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also healthy and satisfying. They are suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a family meal or a potluck. The creamy dairy-free ranch dressing drizzled on top adds an irresistible finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: These stuffed peppers come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Meal: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even meal prep them for the week ahead!
• Health-Conscious Option: This recipe fits perfectly into Whole30, paleo, gluten-free, and low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Garnish: Top with fresh herbs and green onions to add extra freshness and color.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious buffalo chicken stuffed peppers.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve the desired tenderness in the peppers.
• Large skillet: Ideal for mixing all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine the filling ingredients easily.

Ingredients

For the Peppers

• 3 large bell peppers – any color, cut in half lengthwise and seeds removed

For the Filling

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken – a rotisserie chicken will be about the perfect amount of chicken for this recipe
• 1 cup paleo mayonnaise, either homemade or store-bought avocado mayo
• 1/2 cup hot sauce or buffalo sauce – I love Frank’s Red Hot, but a Whole30 compatible buffalo sauce also works
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
• 1 bunch of green onions, white and light green parts thinly sliced – plus more for garnish

For Serving

• Whole30 ranch dressing for garnish
• Fresh herbs for garnish

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bell Peppers

Arrange cut and de-seeded bell peppers in a lightly greased large skillet or baking dish, cut side up.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl:
1. Combine pre-cooked shredded chicken, mayonnaise, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, nutritional yeast (if using), and green onions.
2. Mix well until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more hot sauce or salt if desired.

Step 4: Stuff the Peppers

Fill each prepared pepper with the buffalo chicken mixture. Make sure to pack it in tightly.

Step 5: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake stuffed peppers for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes until peppers are tender and filling is bubbly and slightly browned.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with a drizzle of ranch dressing, thinly sliced green onions, and fresh herbs if desired before serving! Enjoy your delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers!

This recipe makes approximately six servings. Happy cooking!

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

Buffalo chicken stuffed peppers are a fantastic dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. These flavorful peppers can be paired with side dishes or garnished creatively to make them even more appealing.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad adds freshness and crunch. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

Serve with Cauliflower Rice

• Cauliflower rice is a low-carb option that complements the flavors of the stuffed peppers. Simply sauté it with garlic for extra flavor.

Top with Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices add richness and healthy fats. They balance the spiciness of the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Include Extra Ranch Dressing

• A side of dairy-free ranch dressing makes for an excellent dipping sauce. It enhances the flavor and provides a cooling contrast.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley not only add color but also fresh flavor. Sprinkle them on top before serving for a vibrant touch.

How to Perfect Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

Creating the ultimate buffalo chicken stuffed peppers requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chicken and hot sauce for maximum flavor impact.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to increase or decrease the amount of hot sauce based on your personal heat preference.
• Don’t Overstuff: While packing in the filling is tempting, overstuffing can cause spills during baking.
• Bake Covered Initially: Covering the dish while baking helps steam the peppers, making them tender before browning the tops.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like sliced jalapeños or dairy-free cheese to change up flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing in advance and store it in the fridge for quick assembly when you’re ready to bake.

Best Side Dishes for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

Serving buffalo chicken stuffed peppers can be enhanced by pairing them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative to pasta and soak up any extra sauce.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and crunch; season with olive oil and your favorite spices.
3. Broccoli Slaw: A crunchy broccoli slaw offers freshness and a delightful texture contrast; toss with a light dressing.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with spinach and herbs create an irresistible bite-sized treat that pairs well.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar is simple yet delicious, providing a cool counterpart to the spice.
6. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy garlic mashed cauliflower is a comforting side that is both creamy and low-carb, perfect alongside your peppers.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned grilled asparagus offers a smoky flavor that complements the spicy filling of the peppers.
8. Sweet Potato Wedges: Oven-baked sweet potato wedges are naturally sweet and provide a nice contrast to the savory peppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers truly shine. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using uncooked chicken: Make sure to use cooked shredded chicken for the filling. Raw chicken will not cook through in the peppers, leading to food safety issues.
• Overfilling the peppers: While it’s tempting to pack them tightly, overfilling can cause the mixture to spill out during baking. Aim for a generous yet manageable amount in each pepper half.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste your buffalo chicken mixture before stuffing can lead to bland flavors. Adjust the seasoning as needed for a burst of flavor.
• Skipping the garnishes: Garnishes like ranch dressing and fresh herbs elevate the dish. Don’t skip these toppings—they add freshness and enhance presentation.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your stuffed peppers, especially towards the end of baking, to ensure they don’t burn or dry out.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

• Wrap individual peppers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the peppers on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a pepper on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking. Cook until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute shredded beef, turkey, or even lamb if you prefer different flavors.

Are Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers – Dairy Free & Low Carb suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These stuffed peppers store and reheat well, making them perfect for meal prep.

What can I use instead of hot sauce?

If you’re looking for milder flavors, consider using mild salsa or a sweet chili sauce as alternatives.

How do I customize my Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the mix or change up the spices based on your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. They cater to various dietary needs while delivering bold flavors that everyone will enjoy. Experiment with different fillings or toppings to make this recipe uniquely yours!