These Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are a fun and tasty way to celebrate Halloween! The peppers are filled with flavorful shredded chicken mixed with rice, all nestled inside vibrant orange bell peppers that look perfect for a spooky festive touch. The mix is hearty and satisfying, with just the right amount of seasoning to keep everyone happy.
I love making these stuffed peppers because they’re easy to prep and bake, and they make the whole house smell delicious. Plus, the shredded chicken makes the filling so tender and juicy, which I think beats regular ground meat every time. I like to add a little cheese on top to melt in the oven—it gives everything a nice creamy finish.
These peppers are such a fun dish to serve at a Halloween dinner or party. They look festive right on the plate, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies along with a comforting, filling meal. I like to pair them with a simple side salad or some roasted veggies, and it always feels like a special occasion. Plus, they’re easy to eat and share, so everyone at the table can enjoy the spooky spirit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: These are the star vessels for your filling. Choose bright orange, red, or green for a Halloween vibe. If you can’t find bell peppers, large tomatoes or even hollowed-out zucchinis are fun alternatives.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver and stays juicy. You can also poach chicken breasts or thighs and shred them yourself. For a vegetarian option, use cooked shredded jackfruit or beans.
Rice: White rice works well here but you can swap for brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition and chewiness.
Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely for a gooey topping. Parmesan adds flavor depth. Feel free to use other melty cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika and oregano add warmth and earthiness. Adjust the chili powder to your spice comfort. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro brighten the dish in the end.
How Do I Carve Peppers Safely and Keep Them Standing for Baking?
Carving peppers can be tricky, but here’s how to do it simply and safely:
- Use a small, sharp paring knife for good control when cutting jack-o’-lantern faces.
- Cut the tops off evenly to create a flat base for the peppers to stand upright.
- Remove seeds and membranes carefully without breaking the pepper walls.
- If the pepper won’t stand, trim a tiny bit from the bottom edge—just enough so it’s stable but don’t cut through!
- Handle the peppers gently to avoid punctures that could leak filling during baking.
Taking your time with carving makes the presentation fun and keeps your stuffed peppers intact while cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish or tray – to hold the peppers upright and catch any drips while baking.
- Sharp paring knife – perfect for carving fun Halloween faces on the peppers safely.
- Large mixing bowl – to mix the chicken, rice, and seasonings together easily.
- Skillet or frying pan – for sautéing onions and garlic before mixing.
- Spoon or small ladle – handy for stuffing the peppers without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for ground turkey or beef for a richer, heartier filling.
- Add black beans or corn for more color, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
- Try smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a smoky or spicy twist.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale to boost the veggies without changing the taste much.
Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers (Halloween Style)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peppers and Filling:
- 4 large bell peppers (mix of green, red, orange, or yellow for Halloween fun)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, plan for roughly 45 minutes total from start to finish, which makes it a great, easy meal even on busy days or fun Halloween nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. If you want to add a Halloween touch, carve simple jack-o’-lantern faces on the peppers now. Set peppers aside.
2. Making the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, cooked shredded chicken, cooked rice, marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well.
3. Stuffing and Baking the Peppers:
Fill each hollowed pepper with the chicken and rice mixture. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish or tray. Sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top of each. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley leaves before serving. Enjoy your spooky and delicious Halloween stuffed peppers!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before shredding. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or for a few hours in cold water, then pat dry to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Can I Prepare the Stuffed Peppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can stuff the peppers and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
Definitely! Adjust the chili powder or cayenne pepper to your taste—add more for heat or omit for a milder version. You can also add fresh diced jalapeños to the filling if you like extra spice.
