Stuffed Bell Peppers with Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Seasoning:

• • 133g Chicken breast (cut into small pieces or minced)
  • 14g (0.5 Tbsp) Minced garlic

• • 4g (0.5 Tbsp) Curry powder
  • 2g (0.5 Tbsp) Chili powder
  • 60g (3 Tbsp) Tomato pasta sauce

• 2 pinches of salt
• Black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• • 250g Potato (1 medium-sized potato)

• • 3 pinches of salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2-3 Tbsp Milk (optional, for creamier texture)

For the Paprika Seasoning:

• • 1.5 Large red bell peppers (cut in half, seeds removed)
  • Olive oil (for brushing the bell peppers)
  • A pinch of salt

• Black pepper to taste

Toppings:

• • Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, amount as desired)
  • Parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bell Peppers

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers:
   • • Cut the large red bell peppers in half, remove the seeds and the membranes, and brush the insides lightly with olive oil.
   • Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper on the peppers for seasoning.
3. Roast the Bell Peppers:
   • • Place the bell pepper halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and roast them in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. You want the peppers to soften but still hold their shape for stuffing. Remove them from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. 1. Boil the Potatoes:
      • Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes or until they are fork-tender.

1. Mash the Potatoes:
   • • Drain the water from the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher until smooth.
     • Season with salt and black pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk for a creamier texture, if desired, and mix well.
     • Set the mashed potatoes aside for the stuffing.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Filling

1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
   • • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat a small amount of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
     • Add the diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season with curry powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
   • Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
2. Add Tomato Pasta Sauce:
   • • Stir in the tomato pasta sauce and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. This will give the chicken a rich, tangy flavor.
   • Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Stuff the Bell Peppers

1. Assemble the Stuffed Peppers:
   • • Take the pre-roasted bell peppers and fill each half with a generous scoop of mashed potatoes.
   • Next, add a layer of the seasoned chicken mixture on top of the mashed potatoes in each bell pepper.
2. Add the Cheese:
   • • Top each stuffed bell pepper with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt and become bubbly, adding a delicious layer of flavor.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

1. 1. Bake the Stuffed Peppers:
      • Place the stuffed bell peppers back into the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden on top.

1. Garnish:
   • Once baked, remove the peppers from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
2. Serve:
   • • Serve the stuffed bell peppers hot. They can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Tips:

• • Bell Peppers: Use large bell peppers for better stuffing and presentation. The sweetness of red bell peppers pairs well with the savory chicken and creamy potatoes.
  • Make It Spicy: If you love a little heat, add chopped jalapenos to the chicken mixture, or increase the chili powder for an extra kick.

• Mashed Potatoes: For a richer mashed potato filling, you can add a knob of butter or cream instead of milk. You can also leave the potato skin on for added texture and nutrients.
• Cheese Choices: While mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for different flavor profiles.