Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant and hearty dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare? Dive into the world of Italian flavors with our Chicken Orzo Stuffed Peppers, a delightful recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience! Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, these colorful bell peppers are packed with savory rotisserie chicken, tender orzo, and ooey-gooey mozzarella, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers
- 1 cup cooked orzo
- 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your stuffed peppers cook evenly and thoroughly.
- While the oven is preheating, prepare the bell peppers. Slice the tops off each bell pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. You can also trim the bottoms slightly if they don't stand upright.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, shredded rotisserie chicken, marinara sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
- Stuff each bell pepper generously with the chicken and orzo mixture. Press down gently to pack the filling in, and then place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the stuffed peppers to enhance flavor and help them brown during baking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in while the peppers cook. This will help them become tender.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the tops of the stuffed peppers.
- Return the baking dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let the stuffed peppers cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Chicken Orzo Stuffed Peppers warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: If you're short on time, consider prepping the filling a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and stuff the peppers right before baking!
- Choose Your Peppers Wisely: Opt for vibrant, firm bell peppers. Red, yellow, and orange peppers not only add sweetness but also make your dish visually stunning.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to the orzo mixture. Zucchini, spinach, or even a dash of Italian herbs can elevate the flavors!
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil on top before baking enhances the flavor and ensures a beautiful golden finish on your stuffed peppers.
- Check for Doneness: After the initial baking time, if the peppers are still firm, give them an extra few minutes covered in foil to ensure they’re tender.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving adds a burst of freshness and a pop of color!
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve your stuffed peppers with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 95mg
