I can’t tell you how excited I am to share this recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Peppers with you! It’s one of those dishes that brings a cozy, heartwarming vibe to any dinner table. I remember the first time I made them for a gathering; it was a rainy Saturday, and I wanted something hearty yet easy. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing all nestled inside colorful bell peppers just hit the spot! It was an instant crowd-pleaser and quickly became a favorite in my household.
What I love most about these stuffed peppers is how versatile they are. You can have them as a full meal or a fun appetizer, and honestly, they can be made ahead of time for those busy nights. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness!
What’s in Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Peppers?
Bell Peppers: The stars of the show, these vibrant veggies hold all the goodness inside! I usually go for a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers to add a splash of color, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, this protein-packed ingredient is the heart of the dish. I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works beautifully.
Bacon: Let’s be honest, crispy bacon makes everything better! I typically use thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch.
Ranch Dressing: This is where the magic happens! The creamy, tangy flavor of ranch dressing adds so much richness to the filling. You can even swap in a healthier version if you prefer.
Cheese: Because cheese! I prefer a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect gooeyness, but you can experiment with your favorites.
Green Onions: These bring a fresh bite and a pop of color to the filling, plus they elevate the overall flavor. Trust me, you won’t want to skip those!
Is Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Peppers Good for You?
Absolutely! These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients from the bell peppers.
Bell Peppers: They’re loaded with vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system. Plus, they add fiber to the dish, making it more filling.
Chicken: A fantastic source of lean protein, chicken helps keep you satisfied, and it’s so versatile.
Bacon: While bacon adds flavor, it’s good to keep in mind that it’s best enjoyed in moderation. The crispy bits can add a satisfying crunch, but you can use turkey bacon or skip it altogether if you want to lighten things up a bit!
Overall, these beauties are a delightful meal that you can feel good about enjoying.
Ingredients
– 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed (serves 4)
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 green onions, sliced
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Peppers?
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped bacon, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sliced green onions. Mix until everything is well-coated and combined.
3. Take the halved bell peppers and arrange them in a baking dish, cut side up.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken and bacon mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions and Tips for Perfect Peppers
– If you want to mix it up, try adding some chopped veggies like spinach or tomatoes to the filling.
– For a bit of a kick, sprinkle in some diced jalapeños!
– These stuffed peppers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. They also freeze nicely, making them perfect for meal prep.
– Serve them with a side salad or some garlic bread for a full meal.
I can’t wait for you to try these Chicken Bacon Ranch Stuffed Peppers! They’re sure to become a favorite in your household, just like they have in mine. Once you take that first bite and feel the flavors dance on your palate, you’ll be hooked! Feel free to share your experiences or any tweaks you make to the recipe – I’d love to hear how it goes! Happy cooking!