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Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Chicken with Diced Veggies and Quinoa Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on December 16, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

When it comes to healthy eating, finding meals that are both nutritious and delicious can sometimes feel like a challenge. Enter Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Chicken—a colorful, hearty dish that checks all the boxes!

These vibrant peppers are filled with savory ground chicken, diced veggies, and wholesome quinoa, making them a perfect option for anyone on a weight-loss journey.

Imagine biting into a tender bell pepper bursting with flavor and filled to the brim with protein and veggies. Not only are stuffed bell peppers visually appealing, but they’re also incredibly versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Let’s dive into the benefits of the ingredients and walk through this easy-to-follow recipe!

The Benefits of Bell Peppers

Bell peppers are more than just a pretty face in your salad. They are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for weight loss.

One medium bell pepper contains about 25 calories and is packed with vitamin C, providing over 150% of your daily requirement in just one pepper! Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system and can even help boost your metabolism.

Moreover, bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body.

Studies suggest that diets rich in antioxidants may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers.

Ground Chicken: A Lean Protein Source

Ground chicken is a fantastic option for those looking to increase their protein intake without the extra fat found in some cuts of beef or pork.

A 3-ounce serving of cooked ground chicken contains about 22 grams of protein and only 7 grams of fat. This makes it an ideal choice for weight loss, as protein helps keep you feeling full and satisfied longer.

Incorporating lean proteins like ground chicken into your meals can help support muscle growth and maintenance, especially when you’re in a calorie deficit.

Plus, it’s versatile enough to take on a variety of flavors, making it perfect for stuffing peppers.

Quinoa: The Super Grain

Quinoa is often hailed as a “superfood,” and for good reason. It’s not only a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, but it’s also high in fiber.

Just one cup of cooked quinoa provides about 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. This helps promote satiety and digestive health, making it a great addition to your stuffed peppers.

Additionally, quinoa is gluten-free and packed with vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. Its nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it a perfect base for your stuffed pepper filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Stuffed Peppers:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color: red, green, yellow, or orange)
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced zucchini (or any favorite veggies)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your choice of herbs)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

  • Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake the stuffed peppers.
  • Prepare the Peppers: Wash the bell peppers and slice the tops off. Remove the seeds and membranes, creating a hollow space for your filling. If desired, you can chop up the tops and add them to the filling for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

  • Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent.
  • Add Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
  • Incorporate Veggies and Quinoa: Stir in the diced tomatoes, zucchini, cooked quinoa, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

  • Fill the Peppers: Spoon the chicken and quinoa mixture into each prepared bell pepper until they are generously stuffed. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle some on top of each pepper.
  • Place in Baking Dish: Arrange the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. If they don’t stand well on their own, you can slice a small portion off the bottom to create a flat base.

Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Peppers

  • Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This helps the peppers cook through while keeping them moist.
  • Add Toppings: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese (if using) is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish: Once done, remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
  • Serve: Enjoy your stuffed bell peppers warm, either as a main dish or paired with a light salad. They’re perfect for meal prep, too—save leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week!

Nutritional Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional content of this delicious stuffed pepper dish:

  • Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per stuffed pepper, depending on the size and ingredients used.
  • Protein: About 25-30 grams, primarily from the ground chicken and quinoa.
  • Fiber: Roughly 6-7 grams, thanks to the quinoa and veggies.
  • Healthy Fats: Approximately 10 grams, mainly from the olive oil and optional cheese.

These figures can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but overall, this dish is a nutritious option that supports your weight loss goals.

Tips for Success

  • Choose Colorful Peppers: Not only do they look good, but different colored bell peppers also offer different nutritional benefits. For example, red peppers are higher in vitamin C than green peppers.
  • Make It Ahead: Stuffed peppers are great for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the peppers later, or even freeze them after baking for a quick meal later on.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spices in your filling. Adding cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of hot sauce can give your stuffed peppers an exciting twist.
  • Add More Veggies: You can increase the veggie content by adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or spinach. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds different textures and flavors.

A Colorful and Satisfying Meal

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and wholesome flavors. These stuffed beauties are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to nourish your body while keeping your weight loss goals in check.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, grab some bell peppers and get creative! This recipe is not only easy to make but also adaptable to suit your taste buds.

Enjoy every colorful bite, knowing you’re treating yourself to something truly special!