
Introduction to Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re like me, providing delicious meals to your family while juggling a busy schedule can feel like a circus act. Enter my Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers – a dazzling dish that combines vibrant colors and fresh flavors. It’s a superb way to sneak in wholesome ingredients your kids will adore. These stuffed peppers are not just a meal; they’re a quick solution for hectic evenings when you still want to impress your loved ones with something special. Ready to dig in?
Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Life can get overwhelming, but this recipe delivers on flavor without complicating your day. These Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers come together in under an hour! They’re not just delicious; they’re family-friendly too. Each bite is a sweet, savory delight that pleases picky eaters. Plus, they look stunning on the table, making them perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions!
Ingredients for Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your culinary masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need for my delightful Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers:
- Large bell peppers: Choose any color you love! These peppers are the vibrant vessels that hold the delicious filling.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Diced into bite-sized pieces, they provide a juicy protein base. You can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Cooked rice: Whether you prefer white, brown, or fragrant jasmine rice, it adds substance and texture to the filling.
- Pineapple chunks: Fresh or canned, these sweet bites bring a tropical flair. They balance the savory notes beautifully.
- Teriyaki sauce: This brings the magic! Use a store-bought variety or whip up your own for a homemade touch.
- Olive oil: Just a drizzle for sautéing and coating the peppers. It adds a lovely richness to the dish.
- Onion: Finely chopped, it provides a notable depth of flavor to the mixture.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for an aromatic kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
- Ginger: Freshly minced ginger adds warmth and brightness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Shredded carrots: These not only add color but also a subtle sweetness and a crunch to the filling.
- Green onions: Chopped for garnish, they bring a fresh, zesty touch at the end.
- Sesame seeds: A lovely crunchy topping for garnish, they add a nice finishing touch.
For exact quantities and a printable version, check below in the article. I love to add a touch of personalization to my recipes, so feel free to experiment with your favorite veggies or add some spice if your family enjoys a bit of heat!
How to Make Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Now that we have our ingredients prepped and ready, let’s bring this colorful dish to life! The process is straightforward and fun, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious family meal in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a baking dish. Place the hollowed-out bell peppers inside, drizzle them with olive oil, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. This enhances their flavor as they bake!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced chicken, cooking it until it turns golden brown and is no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate, setting it aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté everything for about 2 to 3 minutes until the aromatic scents fill your kitchen. Add the shredded carrots and let them cook for another 2 minutes. This is when the veggies become tender and flavorful!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Then, pour in the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and your teriyaki sauce. Stir everything well to combine, heating it for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything is nice and warm. Your filling is ready!
Step 5: Stuff the Peppers
Now comes the fun part! Grab your bell peppers, and carefully scoop the chicken and rice mixture into each one. Press down gently to pack them tightly. These vibrant vessels will hold all the goodness, so don’t be shy while stuffing!
Step 6: Bake the Peppers
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow the peppers to bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for tender peppers and a bubbly filling!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. They add a lovely crunch and freshness! Serve warm, and prepare for compliments. These stuffed peppers not only taste amazing but make your dinner table look delightful!
Tips for Success
- Prep your ingredients beforehand. This makes assembly a breeze!
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Mix and match your veggies – bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn work great!
- If you love cheese, sprinkle some on top before baking for an extra gooey delight.
- Let leftovers cool before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works well. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe casserole dish will do.
- Skillet: A large non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing. A regular skillet can work too, just make sure it’s well-oiled!
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping your ingredients.
- Measuring cups: Handy for accurate ingredient portions if you prefer precision.
- Aluminum foil: Great for covering your baking dish to lock in moisture.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the filling if your family loves heat.
- Veggie Delight: Replace the chicken with diced firm tofu or skip the protein entirely, loading up on extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese into the chicken and rice filling for an extra creamy texture that kids will love.
- Quinoa Base: Swap out the rice for quinoa to boost the fiber and protein content. It’s an excellent gluten-free option!
- Fruit Variation: Experiment with different fruits like mango or diced apples instead of pineapple for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
- Drinks: Pair with a light iced tea or sparkling water infused with lemon for a refreshing touch.
- Presentation: Garnish the plates with additional pineapple slices for a pop of color and sweetness.
FAQs about Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
Got questions about making these flavorful Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I’ve gathered from fellow home cooks just like you:
Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, pop them in the oven straight from the fridge, allowing a few extra minutes for baking.
What should I do with leftover stuffing?
If you find yourself with extra filling, no worries! Use it as a delicious topping for a baked potato, or mix it into a stir-fry. It also makes a great filling for quesadillas or wraps!
Can I freeze Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers?
Yes! These stuffed peppers freeze beautifully. Just make sure to wrap them well in foil or freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
Are these stuffed peppers gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free teriyaki sauce, these Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers are entirely gluten-free. Perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions!
What can I serve with these stuffed peppers?
These stuffed peppers are versatile! Consider pairing them with a light salad or roasted vegetables. You can also add a refreshing beverage like iced tea to enhance your meal.
Final Thoughts
Creating Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers is more than just cooking; it’s about sharing joy with your loved ones. This colorful dish brings a delightful medley of flavors that never fails to impress. I find immense joy in watching my family dive into these delightful peppers, their faces lighting up with every bite. They’re not only easy to make but also a fun conversation starter at the dinner table. So, whether it’s a casual family night or a special occasion, this dish surely becomes a cherished memory for everyone involved. Enjoy the warmth it brings!
Print
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hey there, fellow home cooks! If you’re like me, providing delicious meals to your family while juggling a busy schedule can feel like a circus act. Enter my Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers – a dazzling dish that combines vibrant colors and fresh flavors. It’s a superb way to sneak in wholesome ingredients your kids will adore. These stuffed peppers are not just a meal; they’re a quick solution for hectic evenings when you still want to impress your loved ones with something special. Ready to dig in?
Ingredients
- 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the hollowed-out bell peppers in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the shredded carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and teriyaki sauce. Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared bell peppers, pressing down gently to pack them full.
- Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with tofu.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed pepper
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg