Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers: A Spicy, Cheesy Appetizer You’ll Love

Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers: A Spicy, Cheesy Appetizer You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s packed with bold flavors, these Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers are the perfect choice! Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty buffalo sauce, all stuffed into sweet baby bell peppers, this dish is a guaranteed hit at parties, game days, or even as a fun weeknight dinner.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient substitutions, storage tips, and even nutritional insights. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible results every time.


Why You’ll Love Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers

✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great as an appetizer, snack, or even a low-carb meal.
✅ Bold & Balanced Flavors – Spicy buffalo sauce meets creamy cheese and sweet peppers.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and quick baking time.
✅ Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to your liking with more or less hot sauce.
✅ Healthier Than Traditional Buffalo Wings – No frying, fewer carbs, and packed with protein.

Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!


Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers

Before we get into the cooking process, let’s review the ingredients you’ll need. Most of these are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.

Main Ingredients

  • 15-17 sweet baby bell peppers (about 2 pounds) – Washed, dried, halved, and deseeded.
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock – Adds moisture and depth of flavor.
  • ¾ cup Frank’s Red Hot original sauce – The classic buffalo sauce base.
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory notes.
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed – Creates a rich, creamy texture.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley – For freshness and color.
  • 1½ pounds cooked and shredded chicken breast – You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • 8 ounces shredded cheese – A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella works best.

Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)

  • Chopped green onions – Adds a mild oniony crunch.
  • Extra hot sauce – For those who love extra heat.
  • Crumbled blue cheese – A classic buffalo wing pairing.
  • Chopped jalapeños – For an extra spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers

Now, let’s walk through the cooking process to ensure your stuffed peppers turn out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Prep the Baby Bell Peppers

  1. Wash & Dry – Rinse the baby bell peppers under cold water and pat them dry.
  2. Cut & Deseed – Slice each pepper in half lengthwise and remove the stems, seeds, and white membranes.

Step 2: Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling

  1. Simmer the Sauce – In a large sauté pan, heat the chicken stock, Frank’s Red Hot sauce, and garlic powder over medium-high heat until it simmers.
  2. Melt the Cream Cheese – Add the cubed cream cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Fresh Herbs – Stir in the chopped parsley.
  4. Mix in the Chicken – Fold in the shredded chicken until fully coated in the sauce.
  5. Add the Cheese – Stir in the shredded cheese and cook for 3-5 minutes until melted. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

  1. Arrange on Baking Sheet – Lightly grease a baking sheet and place the pepper halves cut-side up.
  2. Fill Generously – Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to pack the buffalo chicken mixture into each pepper.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  1. First Bake (15 minutes) – Bake at 400°F (middle rack) for 15 minutes.
  2. Add Extra Cheese (Optional) – Sprinkle more shredded cheese on top and bake for 2-3 more minutes until melted.
  3. Garnish & Serve – Top with chopped green onions, parsley, or extra hot sauce for presentation.

The Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion – Why Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers Are a Must-Try

If you’re searching for a dish that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any gathering, look no further than Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers. This appetizer combines the bold, spicy taste of buffalo chicken with the natural sweetness of baby bell peppers, creating a bite-sized treat that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.

Why This Dish Stands Out

Unlike traditional buffalo wings (which can be messy and high in calories), these stuffed peppers offer a healthier, low-carb alternative without sacrificing flavor. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and tangy hot sauce makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, reducing excess oil while keeping the texture deliciously satisfying.

Great for Parties & Gatherings

Whether you’re hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, or casual get-together, these peppers are a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to eat with your hands (no utensils needed!) and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a stress-free option for entertaining.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can:

  • Adjust the spice level by using more or less hot sauce.
  • Swap cheeses (try pepper jack for extra heat or blue cheese for authenticity).
  • Add toppings like crispy bacon, diced jalapeños, or extra green onions.

Healthier Than Traditional Buffalo Dishes

Since these peppers are naturally low in carbs and packed with lean protein, they’re a great option for those following keto, gluten-free, or low-calorie diets. Plus, baby bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, adding a nutritious boost.

Easy to Scale Up or Down

Need to feed a crowd? Simply double or triple the recipe. Making a small batch for yourself? Cut the ingredients in half. The recipe is flexible and forgiving, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.


 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide – How to Make the Best Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers

Making Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers is simple, even for beginner cooks. Below, we break down each step to ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prep the Peppers

  • Choose fresh baby bell peppers—they should be firm and brightly colored.
  • Wash & dry thoroughly to remove any dirt.
  • Slice in half lengthwise and remove the stems, seeds, and membranes (a small spoon works well for scraping).

Step 2: Cook the Buffalo Chicken Filling

  1. Simmer the sauce – In a large pan, combine chicken stock, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Melt the cream cheese – Add cubed cream cheese and whisk until completely smooth.
  3. Mix in the chicken – Fold in shredded chicken until fully coated.
  4. Add shredded cheese – Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and creamy.

Step 3: Stuff the Peppers

  • Arrange pepper halves on a greased baking sheet.
  • Scoop filling generously into each pepper (an ice cream scoop works well).
  • Press down lightly to ensure the filling stays in place.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

  • Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes until peppers soften slightly.
  • Add extra cheese (optional) and bake 2-3 more minutes until bubbly.
  • Garnish & serve warm with green onions, parsley, or extra hot sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

✔ Don’t overfill peppers—they can become soggy.
✔ Let filling cool slightly before stuffing for easier handling.
✔ Broil at the end for a crispy, golden top (1-2 minutes max).


 Serving Ideas, Storage Tips, and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the recipe, let’s explore how to serve, store, and customize your Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers.

Best Ways to Serve

  • As an appetizer – Perfect for game day, potlucks, or holiday parties.
  • With dipping sauces – Ranch, blue cheese, or even a cool yogurt dip balance the heat.
  • As a main dish – Pair with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in oven (350°F for 10 mins) or microwave (30-second intervals).
  • Freeze unbaked peppers – Assemble, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes.

Delicious Variations to Try

  • Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hotter sauce.
  • Cheesy Twist – Mix in blue cheese crumbles or pepper jack.
  • Extra Crunch – Top with bacon bits or crushed pork rinds before baking.

Dietary Adjustments

  • Keto-Friendly – Already low-carb, just check hot sauce for hidden sugars.
  • Dairy-Free – Use vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese.
  • Higher Protein – Add extra chicken or mix in Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Expert Tips for the Best Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers

🔹 Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for Convenience – Rotisserie chicken or store-bought shredded chicken saves time.
🔹 Adjust Spice Level – For milder peppers, reduce hot sauce; for extra heat, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
🔹 Make Ahead Option – Assemble the peppers a few hours before baking and refrigerate until ready to cook.
🔹 Cheese Variations – Try pepper jack for extra spice or blue cheese for an authentic buffalo wing flavor.
🔹 Crispier Peppers? – Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for a slightly charred finish.


Serving Suggestions

These Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them with these serving ideas:

🍽 With Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing – Perfect for dipping.
🍽 Alongside Celery & Carrot Sticks – A classic buffalo wing pairing.
🍽 As a Main Dish – Serve with a side salad or roasted potatoes for a full meal.


Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Freezing for Later

  • Freeze unbaked stuffed peppers on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag.
  • Bake from frozen, adding 5-10 extra minutes to cooking time.

Nutritional Information (Per Stuffed Pepper)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 247 kcal
Total Fat 13g
Saturated Fat 7g
Cholesterol 72mg
Sodium 594mg
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 2g
Sugar 5g
Protein 20g

This dish is high in protein and lower in carbs compared to traditional buffalo chicken dips served with bread or chips.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Regular Bell Peppers Instead of Baby Bell Peppers?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust baking time (closer to 25-30 minutes).

2. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use vegan shredded cheese.

3. How Do I Prevent the Peppers from Getting Soggy?

  • Don’t overfill with sauce.
  • Bake at a high temperature (400°F) to help crisp them slightly.

4. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breast?

Absolutely! Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor.


Print

Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers: A Spicy, Cheesy Appetizer You’ll Love

These Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers are a delicious, low-carb twist on traditional buffalo chicken dip! Sweet baby bell peppers are stuffed with a creamy, spicy buffalo chicken filling, topped with melted cheese, and baked to perfection. They make a great appetizer, party snack, or even a light meal.

  • Author: Harper Callahan
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Total Time: 50 mins

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1517 baby bell peppers (about 2 lbs), halved & seeded
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
  • ¾ cup Frank’s Red Hot original sauce (+ more for garnish)
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (+ more for garnish)
  • 1.5 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded (see note)
  • 8 oz shredded cheese (sharp cheddar & mozzarella mix)
  • 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional toppings: jalapeños, blue cheese crumbles

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and place rack in the middle position.
  2. Prepare peppers: Wash, halve, and remove seeds/membranes.
  3. Make buffalo sauce: In a large pan, heat chicken stock, hot sauce, and garlic powder until simmering.
  4. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Stir in parsley.
  5. Mix in shredded chicken until fully coated.
  6. Add shredded cheese and stir until melted (3-5 mins). Remove from heat.
  7. Stuff peppers: Arrange peppers on a greased baking sheet. Spoon filling into each, packing gently.
  8. Bake 15 mins, then top with extra cheese and bake 2-3 more mins until melted.
  9. Garnish with parsley, green onions, and extra toppings.

Notes

  • Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked shredded chicken.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 247 Per Stuffed Pepper
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 594mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 72mg

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Final Thoughts

These Buffalo Chicken Baby Bell Peppers are a flavor-packed, easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping meal-friendly snacks, or just want a delicious low-carb option, this recipe delivers.

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