Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers Tasty and Simple Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Try my Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers! This dish packs bold flavors into one simple recipe. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for leftovers, these stuffed peppers are sure to please. Let’s dive into the steps and tips to make this delicious meal!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers
To make Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers, gather these tasty ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (pick your favorite color)
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (mild or spicy)
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Essential Supplies Needed
You will need some simple supplies to prepare your dish:
- A baking dish
- A mixing bowl
- A spoon for mixing
- A knife for cutting the peppers
- A cutting board
Recommended Tools and Utensils
These tools will help you create your stuffed peppers:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (to cover the baking dish)
- Oven mitts (for safety)
- A spatula (for serving)
Each item plays a role in making your cooking easy and fun. Having everything ready makes the process smooth. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Peppers
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take four large bell peppers. You can choose any bright color you like. Cut off the tops and remove the seeds and membranes. This creates a hollow space for the filling. Drizzle a little olive oil on the outside of the peppers. This adds flavor and keeps them moist. Place the peppers upright in a baking dish.
Mixing the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine two cups of shredded chicken with one cup of enchilada sauce. You can pick mild or spicy sauce based on your taste. Add one cup of rinsed black beans and one cup of corn. Sprinkle in one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of garlic powder, and half a teaspoon of onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until you have a tasty filling.
Assembling and Baking the Dish
Spoon the chicken mixture into each prepared pepper. Press down gently to pack the filling inside. Top each pepper with a generous amount of shredded cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil to keep in moisture. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. The cheese should be bubbling and golden brown when done. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Stuffed Peppers
To make your chicken enchilada stuffed peppers shine, choose fresh, firm peppers. Look for peppers that feel heavy for their size. Cut off the tops carefully, and remove all seeds and membranes. This step helps the filling taste better. Drizzle olive oil on the outside of the peppers for extra flavor. Pack the filling tightly inside each pepper. This helps them hold their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve your stuffed peppers on a colorful platter for a great look. They taste great with a side of sour cream or guacamole. Fresh cilantro adds a nice touch on top. You can also serve them with a simple green salad or some rice. These sides balance the meal well and bring out the flavors in the peppers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the peppers. Bake them just long enough to soften, but not too much. Another mistake is not seasoning the filling enough. Taste your mixture before stuffing the peppers. Lastly, avoid using too much cheese on top. While cheese is delicious, too much can make them greasy.

Variations
Vegetarian Option for Stuffed Peppers
You can easily make these stuffed peppers meat-free. Swap the chicken for more beans or lentils. Use 2 cups of black beans and add some chopped mushrooms for texture. You can also add more corn for sweetness. This keeps the dish hearty and filling without meat.
Alternative Proteins to Use
If you want to change the protein, consider using shredded beef or pork. These meats bring great flavor and pair well with the enchilada sauce. You can also use shredded turkey as a lighter option. For a twist, try using tofu. Press and crumble the tofu, then mix it in with the filling.
Flavor Enhancements and Add-ins
To take the flavors up a notch, add spices like chili powder or paprika. You can also mix in diced tomatoes for added moisture. For a fresh kick, try adding jalapeños or chopped green onions. A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens the dish. You can even play with different cheeses like pepper jack for extra heat.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Stuffed Peppers
To keep your stuffed peppers fresh, first let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, proper storage is key.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep the moisture in. Bake for about 20 minutes or until they are hot throughout. You can also use the microwave for a quick heat-up, but the oven keeps them nice and crispy.
Freezing for Later Use
You can freeze these stuffed peppers for later meals. First, let them cool completely. Wrap each pepper in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them as mentioned above for a quick meal.
FAQs
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Just cook the chicken first. Boil, grill, or bake it until fully done. Then shred it for your filling. This will add a fresh taste to your dish. Make sure to season it well.
How Spicy Are These Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers?
The heat level depends on your sauce choice. If you use mild enchilada sauce, the dish is not spicy. For a kick, choose a spicy sauce. You can also add jalapeños for more heat. Adjust to your taste for a perfect balance.
What Can I Substitute for Enchilada Sauce?
You can use salsa or tomato sauce if you lack enchilada sauce. A blend of diced tomatoes and spices also works great. Add chili powder, cumin, and garlic for more flavor. This keeps your dish tasty and satisfying.
In this post, we explored how to make Chicken Enchilada Stuffed Peppers. We covered the key ingredients, tools, and steps needed for a tasty dish. You learned tips for perfect stuffing, serving ideas, and ways to avoid common mistakes. We also discussed variations, storage methods, and answered common questions.
Now, you can create a fun meal that fits your taste. Enjoy making these tasty stuffed peppers!



![- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 4 cups mixed salad greens - 1 cup cherry tomatoes - 1 cup corn - 1 ripe avocado - 1/2 cup red onion - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup ranch dressing - BBQ sauce - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - Crispy tortilla strips, fresh cilantro leaves When making BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, start with fresh, quality ingredients. The chicken brings protein and heartiness. I love using shredded chicken that is moist and flavorful. Mixed salad greens add crunch and color. You can choose your favorites like romaine, arugula, or baby spinach. Cherry tomatoes bring sweetness. Always cut them in half to make them easy to eat. Corn adds a pop of sweetness too, and you can use canned or fresh. I prefer fresh corn when it’s in season for the best taste. The avocado adds creaminess. A ripe avocado makes the salad smooth and rich. Red onion gives a nice bite. Keep it thinly sliced so it does not overpower. Shredded cheddar cheese adds a delightful sharpness, making each bite even tastier. The ranch dressing is creamy and tangy, tying everything together. Pair it with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor boost. This combo is truly delicious. For seasoning, use salt and freshly ground black pepper. These simple touches really enhance the flavors. Lastly, crispy tortilla strips add a fun crunch. Fresh cilantro leaves not only look great but also add a fresh taste. You can find the full recipe [Full Recipe]. Enjoy mixing these ingredients for a vibrant, tasty salad! - Combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. - Use a large bowl for easy mixing. - Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Mix until the chicken is fully coated. This step is key. The BBQ sauce gives the chicken a sweet and smoky flavor. It makes the salad pop with taste. - Create the salad base with mixed greens. - Spread the greens evenly in a large bowl. - Layer fresh ingredients: tomatoes, corn, avocado, and onion. - Arrange each ingredient for a colorful look. The vibrant colors make the salad appealing. Each bite brings a different taste, making it fun to eat! - Top with BBQ chicken and cheddar cheese. - Spoon the chicken evenly over the fresh veggies. - Drizzle with ranch dressing, adjusting to your liking. - Toss gently with clean hands or tongs to mix. This salad is now ready to impress! The creamy ranch dressing and savory chicken blend perfectly. Check the [Full Recipe] for more tips! To make your BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad shine, adjust the ranch dressing to your taste. If you love creamy flavors, add more dressing. For a lighter touch, use less. This lets you control how rich the salad feels. Make sure all ingredients mix well. This way, each bite has a bit of everything. An even spread of chicken, veggies, and cheese creates balance. For a lovely presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. This makes it easy for everyone to take their share. Add some cilantro leaves and crispy tortilla strips on top. These toppings not only look great but also add flavor and crunch. A colorful display of greens and toppings makes the salad more appealing. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. A dash of chili powder can add a nice kick. You might also try garlic powder or smoked paprika for depth. Also, think about adding extra ingredients for more variety. Black beans, diced peppers, or even fresh corn can bring new tastes. Each addition offers a chance to create your perfect salad blend. For more details on making this delicious salad, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can easily change the protein in this salad. If you want a different taste, use pulled pork or tofu instead of chicken. Both options add great flavor. For a seafood twist, grilled shrimp works well. The shrimp adds a nice, light touch to the salad. While ranch dressing is a favorite, you can swap it out. Blue cheese dressing gives a strong flavor. A vinaigrette adds a tangy kick that brightens the salad. You can also make your own dressing blends. Mix yogurt with herbs for a fresh taste. Don't be afraid to add more veggies. Bell peppers, cucumbers, and radishes give a nice crunch. You can also roast vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Roasting adds a warm, rich taste that contrasts nicely with the cool salad. For a full recipe, check out the BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad with a Crunchy Twist. Store your BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. For best results, eat it within 2-3 days. The longer it sits, the soggier it may get. If you want to freeze some, consider freezing the chicken separately. This helps keep the chicken tasty when you eat it later. Avoid freezing the salad with dressing. The dressing makes the greens soggy, and nobody likes that! To refresh your leftovers, toss them with fresh greens. This adds crunch and makes it feel new again. If you want to reheat the BBQ chicken, do it separately. This keeps it warm without making the salad wilt. To make BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad, follow these simple steps: 1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken: Mix shredded chicken with BBQ sauce in a big bowl. Add salt and black pepper. Stir until the chicken is well coated. 2. Build the Salad Base: In another large bowl, spread the mixed greens evenly. This is your salad's base. 3. Layer Fresh Ingredients: Add halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, and sliced red onion on top of the greens. This creates a colorful layer. 4. Top with BBQ Chicken: Spoon the BBQ chicken evenly over the fresh layers. This ensures every bite has flavor. 5. Add Creamy Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the salad. Let it melt slightly into the warm chicken. 6. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour ranch dressing over the salad. Adjust the amount to fit your taste. 7. Toss Gently: Use clean hands or tongs to mix everything. Make sure the ranch dressing coats all the ingredients. 8. Taste Test: Before serving, taste the salad. Add more salt or black pepper if needed. 9. Add Crunch and Garnish: Top with crispy tortilla strips and fresh cilantro for a nice finish. This process makes a delicious and colorful salad. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe above. Yes, you can prep this salad ahead of time. Here are some tips: - Cook the Chicken: You can cook and shred the chicken a day in advance. Store it in the fridge with BBQ sauce. - Chop Veggies: Cut the vegetables, like tomatoes and onions, a few hours before serving. Keep them in airtight containers. - Store Dressing Separately: Keep the ranch dressing separate until serving. This keeps the greens fresh and crisp. - Combine Before Serving: Mix everything together just before you eat. This keeps your salad from becoming soggy. This BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad goes great with several side dishes. Here are some ideas: - Crusty Bread: A nice loaf of bread pairs well and adds a hearty touch. - Chips: Tortilla chips or potato chips add crunch and fun. - Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds sweetness and a refreshing taste. - Grilled Veggies: Grilled vegetables complement the salad's flavors. - Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw gives a nice contrast to the salad. These sides enhance your BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad experience. Enjoy! We explored a tasty BBQ Ranch Chicken Salad. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, along with step-by-step instructions for making it. You also picked up tips for perfecting the salad and ideas for variations. Don’t forget to check the storage info for leftovers. This salad is easy to adjust, making it a fun dish for everyone. Enjoy this recipe and make it your own!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/4c564630-ecab-497d-8bae-b951c19ef4f1-768x768.webp)



