Ah, the humble bell pepper – crunchy, sweet, and vibrant. But when it’s filled with a delectable parmesan chicken mixture, it transforms into a culinary masterpiece that’s both delicious and wholesome. Welcome to the world of Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers!
Introduction:
Stuffed peppers have been a comfort food staple in many cultures for generations. However, this recipe takes a slightly Italian twist with the inclusion of parmesan and chicken. It offers a balanced meal, containing your protein, veggies, and dairy, all in one aesthetically pleasing package!
Why Try This Recipe?
- Healthy Choice: Bell peppers are packed with vitamins, particularly Vitamin C. Combine that with lean protein from chicken, and you’ve got yourself a nutritious meal.
- Easy Preparation: Even if you’re not a gourmet chef, this recipe is straightforward. There’s no complicated culinary jargon here – just simple, step-by-step instructions.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a regular weeknight dinner, a potluck with friends, or a special occasion, these stuffed peppers are always a hit!
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green, or a mix, according to preference)
- 500 grams of ground chicken
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of cooked rice (optional for added texture and bulk)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce (optional for added moisture and flavor)
- Fresh parsley for garnishing
Instructions:
- Preparation of Bell Peppers:
a. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
b. Wash the bell peppers and slice off the tops. Remove the seeds and the membranes, ensuring the peppers remain whole. Set aside. - Cooking the Filling:
a. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
b. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions turn translucent.
c. Introduce the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
d. Add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
e. If using rice, fold it into the mixture at this stage.
f. Pour in the tomato sauce and allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
g. Turn off the heat and stir in half of the grated parmesan cheese. - Stuffing the Peppers:
a. Carefully spoon the chicken mixture into each bell pepper cavity.
b. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish, ensuring they stand upright.
c. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top of each stuffed pepper. - Baking:
a. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
b. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
c. If you prefer a golden top, remove the foil for the last 5-7 minutes of baking. - Serving:
a. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
b. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Conclusion:
Parmesan Chicken Stuffed Peppers are not just a delightful meal; they’re a testament to the wonders that simple ingredients when paired rightly, can achieve. Perfect for family dinners or as a special dish when you have guests over, this recipe is sure to be a hit every single time. Pair it with a fresh salad or a glass of white wine, and you have a meal fit for royalty! Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!