Yields: 6 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Quinoa
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
For the Chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Other
- 6 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
Instructions
1. Cook the Quinoa
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly in a fine-mesh sieve.
- In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- While the quinoa cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken, onion, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through and onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in BBQ sauce and cook for an additional minute.
- Remove the chicken mixture from heat.
3. Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chicken mixture, corn, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Stir well.
4. Prepare and Stuff the Peppers
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and ribs.
- Evenly fill each pepper with the chicken and quinoa mixture.
5. Bake
- Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish. Lightly sprinkle the tops with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until peppers are tender, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Optional
- Broil: For an extra golden topping, broil the peppers for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Other Tips
Customize the filling: Add black beans, diced tomatoes, other veggies, or your favorite spices for a flavor twist!
Make it spicy: Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Cheese variations: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
Leftovers: Stuffed peppers reheat well and are a great lunch option!
Enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!
