Mexican chicken stuffed peppers

This Mexican Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe features a blend of spices and tender chicken thigh filling, all encased in sweet red peppers. It's a vibrant and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

29 Dec 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp ground cumin
4 tsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper (spice)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup onion
4 garlic cloves
1 jalapeno pepper
32 oz chicken thighs
1 can canned tomatoes
1 tbsp coriander leaves
4 red peppers
1 lime
Mexican chicken stuffed peppers

This Mexican Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe is a delightful combination of flavorful spices and tender chicken, all packed into sweet red bell peppers for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish not only brings vibrant colors to your table but also bursts with rich, spicy notes that will please your taste buds.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, red pepper, and cinnamon. Mix thoroughly.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and chopped jalapeno, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chopped chicken thighs to the skillet. Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Pour in the canned tomatoes, including their juice. Stir to combine, and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is slightly thickened.
6. Prepare the Peppers:
While the chicken mixture is simmering, prepare the red peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds and membranes. Place the pepper halves in a baking dish, cut side up.
7. Stuff the Peppers:
Spoon the chicken and tomato mixture evenly into each pepper half. Try to distribute the filling equally among all the peppers.
8. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and sprinkle with chopped coriander leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

With this Mexican Chicken Stuffed Peppers recipe, you get a wholesome, flavorful meal that's perfect for any night of the week. The combination of spices and tender chicken encased in the vibrant sweetness of red bell peppers creates a dish that is both healthy and delicious. Enjoy these stuffed peppers hot out of the oven, served with a wedge of lime for an extra burst of citrusy freshness.

Mexican chicken stuffed peppers FAQ:

What is the baking time for the Mexican chicken stuffed peppers?

Bake the stuffed peppers covered with aluminum foil for 25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender.

How can I tell if the chicken thighs are cooked through?

Ensure the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear when pierced.

Can I use another type of pepper instead of red bell peppers?

Yes, you can use other peppers like green bell peppers or poblanos. However, cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and size of the peppers.

How do I store leftover stuffed peppers?

Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

What can I substitute for chicken thighs in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken breast or ground chicken, though cooking times may vary. Ensure that any meat used is cooked thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).

Tips:

- Ensure you preheat your oven to the recommended temperature before starting the preparation to save time.

- For an added layer of flavor, consider roasting the red bell peppers for a few minutes before stuffing them.

- Use freshly minced garlic for a more robust flavor compared to garlic powder.

- If you prefer a milder taste, remove the seeds from the jalapeno pepper before adding it to the mixture.

- To make the meal more filling, consider adding a small amount of cooked rice or quinoa to the chicken mixture before stuffing the peppers.

- Keep an eye on the stuffed peppers while baking to avoid overcooking them; they should be tender but not mushy.

- Let the cooked stuffed peppers rest for a few minutes after pulling them out of the oven to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 590kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 10g
Fat 45g

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