Name: Whole30 Paleo Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers | Low Carb
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 large bell peppers (any color); 4 cups pre-cooked shredded chicken; 1/2 cup compliant mayonnaise (e.g., avocado oil mayo); 1/2 cup compliant hot sauce (e.g., Frank's RedHot Original); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional); 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for filling and garnish)

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Whole30 Paleo Gluten Free Low Carb – a culinary phrase that promises both indulgence and integrity. Have you ever found yourself yearning for the fiery, tangy kick of classic buffalo chicken, yet hesitated due to concerns about carb-heavy ingredients or dietary restrictions? I certainly have! That irresistible combination of spicy, savory chicken and cool, crisp vegetables is a timeless favorite for a reason, but discovering a version that genuinely aligns with specific health and wellness goals can often feel like an intricate culinary quest.

This particular dish represents a brilliant modern evolution of comfort food, thoughtfully marrying the beloved American flavor profile of buffalo chicken, which proudly originated in Buffalo, New York, with the inherent goodness of vibrant bell peppers. Stuffed peppers themselves boast a rich and diverse history across numerous global cultures, serving as incredibly versatile vessels for an array of delicious fillings. What elevates this rendition to extraordinary status is its ingenious transformation into a meal that is not only deeply satisfying but also remarkably adaptable. People truly adore this recipe because it masterfully delivers on all fronts: the robust, craveable flavor; the delightful interplay of tender, perfectly seasoned chicken nestled within crisp-tender peppers; and the undeniable convenience of a wholesome, well-rounded meal, all in one delightful package. It’s truly a game-changer for anyone committed to a mindful eating plan.

I’m genuinely thrilled to share a recipe that perfectly encapsulates everything you cherish about buffalo chicken, meticulously crafted to seamlessly fit your lifestyle. You’ll discover that preparing these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Whole30 Paleo Gluten Free Low Carb is surprisingly straightforward, offering a deliciously nutritious and intensely flavorful solution that makes no compromises on taste or dietary integrity. Prepare to savor every bite of your new favorite healthy comfort food!

Ingredients:

For the Stuffed Peppers:
- 6 medium-sized bell peppers (I love using a mix of red, yellow, and orange for a vibrant dish!)
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 stalk celery, very finely diced
- 1/2 cup compliant Buffalo hot sauce (make sure it’s Whole30 approved – I always use Frank’s RedHot Original because it’s a classic and compliant!)
- 1/4 cup compliant chicken broth or water
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
For the Whole30 Creamy Ranch Dressing (Optional, but highly recommended for serving!):
- 1 cup compliant mayonnaise (store-bought like Primal Kitchen or homemade is perfect)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried chives
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of salt (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk or water, to thin (optional)

Equipment You’ll Need:

Large baking dish (9×13 inch or similar)
Large skillet or Dutch oven

Medium mixing bowl
Small bowl or jar for dressing
Sharp knife

Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Foil or parchment paper

Preparing Your Peppers for Stuffing:

First things first, let’s get those beautiful bell peppers ready to be the star of our dish. This initial step is important because it ensures your peppers are tender and enjoyable, not too crunchy when the dish is done. Trust me, nobody wants a rock-hard pepper!

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This allows the oven to get to temperature while you’re prepping, ensuring even cooking from the moment your peppers go in.
Wash and Halve the Peppers: Give each of your 6 bell peppers a good rinse under cool running water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Then, carefully slice each pepper lengthwise, right down the middle, from the stem to the bottom. You should end up with 12 pepper halves.

Remove Seeds and Membranes: With a spoon or your fingers, meticulously scoop out all of the seeds and any white membranes from the inside of each pepper half. You want a clean, hollow cavity that’s ready to be filled with our delicious buffalo chicken mixture. Sometimes, a small paring knife can help if the membranes are stubborn.
Prepare for Par-Baking: Arrange the pepper halves, cut-side up, in a single layer in your large baking dish. You might need to use two dishes if they don’t all fit comfortably without crowding.
Lightly Season and Drizzle: Drizzle a tiny bit of avocado oil over the inside of each pepper half. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper here is also a great idea, it helps build layers of flavor from the very beginning.

Par-Bake the Peppers: Place the baking dish (or dishes) into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. This par-baking step is crucial! It softens the peppers just enough so they’re not crunchy when you serve them, but still hold their shape beautifully. You want them to be slightly tender, not fully cooked through at this stage. Once they’ve reached this point, carefully remove them from the oven and set them aside while we prepare the filling. Don’t turn off your oven just yet, as we’ll be putting them back in soon!

Crafting the Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Filling:

Now for the heart of our dish: the incredibly flavorful, Whole30 compliant buffalo chicken filling. This is where all those wonderful spicy, savory aromas will start to fill your kitchen!

Cook the Chicken:
You have a few options here for cooking your chicken breasts or thighs:
- Boiling Method (my favorite for easy shredding!): Place the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken into a large pot. Cover the chicken with water or compliant chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the liquid, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks or even a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for super easy shredding.
- Sautéing Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs generously with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let it rest for 5 minutes, then shred it with two forks.
Once your chicken is beautifully shredded, set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same large skillet you used for the chicken (if sautéing) or a clean skillet, add another splash of avocado oil if needed, and heat over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and softened. The celery will add a lovely crunch and subtle freshness to our filling.
Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the softened onions and celery. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – a burnt garlic taste can easily overpower everything else. Then, stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom and release their amazing aromas.

Combine with Chicken and Buffalo Sauce: Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics and spices. Pour in the 1/2 cup of compliant Buffalo hot sauce and the 1/4 cup of compliant chicken broth or water. Stir everything really well, ensuring that every piece of chicken is coated in that fiery, delicious buffalo goodness.
Simmer for Flavor Infusion: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the liquid to slightly reduce, creating a rich, saucy filling that’s absolutely perfect for stuffing. Taste the filling at this point and adjust seasonings if necessary. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash more hot sauce if you like it extra spicy.
Prepare for Stuffing: Remove the skillet from the heat. Your buffalo chicken filling is now ready!

Whipping Up the Creamy Whole30 Ranch Dressing:

No buffalo chicken experience is truly complete without a cool, creamy ranch dressing to balance the heat. Since we’re keeping things Whole30 compliant, we’ll whip up our own delicious version. This dressing is not just for the peppers; it’s fantastic on salads or as a dip for veggies!

Gather Your Ingredients: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine your 1 cup of compliant mayonnaise (whether it’s a store-bought Whole30 approved brand or your own homemade version, it’s going to be great!), 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill weed, 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried chives, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Mix Thoroughly: Using a whisk, stir all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and smooth. If you’re using a jar, you can simply put the lid on and shake it vigorously until everything is blended.

Adjust Consistency (Optional): If you find the dressing a bit too thick for your liking, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened almond milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. I personally prefer a slightly thinner ranch for drizzling.
Season to Taste: Taste the dressing and add a pinch of salt if needed. Remember, the mayonnaise and hot sauce in the filling already contain some salt, so add sparingly.
Chill for Flavor: For the best flavor, I highly recommend covering the dressing and chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dried herbs to rehydrate and the flavors to truly meld and deepen, resulting in a much more delicious and authentic ranch taste.

Assembling and Baking the Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers:

We’re on the home stretch! The kitchen smells incredible, and now it’s time to bring all our hard work together into one glorious dish.

Fill the Peppers: Retrieve your par-baked bell pepper halves from earlier. Using a large spoon, carefully scoop generous amounts of the buffalo chicken filling into each pepper half. Mound the filling nicely, but make sure it stays within the pepper cavity. Don’t be shy; load them up!
Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the filled pepper halves back into your large baking dish (or dishes, if you’re using two). Arrange them snugly but without too much overlapping.

Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This helps to steam the peppers slightly and prevent the filling from drying out while they finish cooking.
Return to Oven: Place the covered baking dish back into the 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the peppers are fork-tender and the filling is heated through and bubbly. The foil ensures the peppers continue to soften without browning too much.
Uncover and Finish: Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking, if you like a slightly more caramelized edge on your peppers or a bit of browning on the top of the chicken filling. Keep an eye on them during this final stage to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Rest Before Serving: Once baked to your liking, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the stuffed peppers rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle and makes them easier to handle.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

Now for the grand finale – making these Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers truly shine!

Garnish Generously: Just before serving, sprinkle the thinly sliced green onions over the top of the hot stuffed peppers. If you’re a fan of cilantro, a scattering of fresh chopped cilantro adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.

Drizzle with Ranch: Grab that chilled Whole30 Creamy Ranch Dressing you made! Drizzle a generous amount over each stuffed pepper half. The cool, tangy ranch is the perfect counterpoint to the spicy buffalo chicken, creating a truly harmonious bite. If you prefer, you can serve the ranch on the side for dipping.
Serve Warm: Serve these delicious Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers warm as a satisfying main course. They’re fantastic on their own, or you could serve them alongside a simple side salad with a Whole30 vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Enjoy Your Creation: Take a moment to appreciate the incredible aroma and vibrant colors before diving in. These are truly a testament to how flavorful and satisfying Whole30, Paleo, Gluten-Free, and Low-Carb meals can be!

Tips for Success & Variations:

I love sharing little secrets and ways to make a recipe truly your own. Here are some extra tips to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers are a smashing success every time, along with ideas for mixing things up!

Make Ahead Magic:

This recipe is wonderful for meal prep! You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also par-bake the peppers and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply fill the peppers and bake as directed. You can even assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Storage and Reheating:

Leftover stuffed peppers keep beautifully! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the microwave for a few minutes until heated through, or for a crispier result, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Adjusting the Spice Level:

My recipe uses a moderate amount of compliant buffalo sauce, which gives a nice kick without being overwhelmingly spicy for most people. If you love extra heat, feel free to add a bit more buffalo sauce to the chicken filling, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and perhaps add a bit more compliant chicken broth to keep the filling moist. Alternatively, choose a milder hot sauce if you can find a compliant one that suits your taste.
Varying the Protein:

While chicken is a classic for buffalo dishes, you can absolutely experiment with other compliant proteins. Shredded turkey breast (perhaps from Thanksgiving leftovers!) would be a fantastic substitute. Ground chicken or turkey could also work; just cook it in the skillet until browned and crumbled before adding the other filling ingredients.

Enhance the Filling:

For an even deeper flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of dried oregano or a tiny bit of compliant nutritional yeast to the chicken filling for a subtle savory, almost “cheesy” (but Whole30 compliant!) note. A small amount of compliant chopped olives or finely diced red bell pepper could also be mixed into the filling for extra texture and flavor, adding to the visual appeal.
Don’t Skip the Par-Bake:

I cannot stress enough how important that initial par-bake of the peppers is! It makes all the difference between a tough, crunchy pepper and one that’s perfectly tender and enjoyable. It’s a small step that yields big rewards in texture.
Batch Prep Your Ranch:

Making a double batch of the Whole30 Creamy Ranch Dressing is always a good idea. It’s so versatile and delicious, you’ll find yourself drizzling it on everything from salads to roasted vegetables. It’s a game-changer for staying compliant and enjoying flavorful meals.

Serving Suggestions Beyond the Plate:

While these are fantastic as a main dish, if you have any leftover buffalo chicken filling, it’s amazing in other ways too! Try it in a lettuce wrap, on top of a baked sweet potato, or even scrambled with eggs for a spicy breakfast. The versatility is endless!

I hope these detailed instructions and tips inspire you to create truly delicious and satisfying Whole30 Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

If you’ve followed along on this culinary journey, you know by now that I truly believe this recipe is a game-changer. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly bridges the gap between indulgent comfort food and mindful, healthy eating. I’ve made it countless times for my family and friends, and the universal feedback is always a delightful surprise at just how satisfying and flavorful something so wholesome can be. We’re talking about a vibrant, zesty, and utterly creamy experience that defies expectations, proving that eating well doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. The tender, sweet bell peppers, generously packed with a savory, spicy, and wonderfully rich buffalo chicken filling, create a symphony of textures and tastes in every single bite. It’s a meal that feels both hearty and fresh, leaving you feeling nourished and completely content, without any of the heaviness or guilt often associated with traditional comfort food.

This recipe for

Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers Whole30 Paleo Gluten Free Low Carb

truly stands out as a culinary triumph because it tackles multiple dietary considerations without ever feeling like a compromise. Imagine digging into a dish that is bursting with the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the savory depth of tender chicken, and the refreshing crunch of bell peppers, all while adhering to strict Whole30 and Paleo guidelines. It’s naturally gluten-free and commendably low in carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for anyone navigating specific dietary needs or simply looking to make smarter, healthier food choices. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an intelligent solution for delicious weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining. It demonstrates that healthy eating can be incredibly exciting, vibrant, and deeply satisfying, offering a robust flavor profile that will make you forget you’re even following a specific eating plan. The ease of preparation, combined with the spectacular results, makes this an undeniable must-try in your kitchen. It’s proof positive that wholesome ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create truly unforgettable meals.

Now, let’s talk about enhancing your experience and getting the most out of these magnificent stuffed peppers. While they are undoubtedly a complete meal on their own, a few thoughtful additions can elevate them even further. For a burst of freshness, I highly recommend a generous sprinkling of chopped fresh cilantro or vibrant green onions right before serving; their aromatic qualities beautifully complement the buffalo kick. If you’re looking for a little extra greenery, a simple side salad of mixed greens tossed with a light, Whole30-compliant vinaigrette (think olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of Dijon mustard) would be perfect. To add more bulk without extra carbs, a side of fluffy cauliflower rice, seasoned lightly, is an excellent companion, allowing you to scoop up any delicious leftover filling. Alternatively, some roasted asparagus spears or steamed broccoli florets offer a lovely textural contrast and an extra boost of vegetables. For those who enjoy a creamy element, a dollop of homemade, compliant ranch dressing or a drizzle of your favorite avocado crema would be an absolutely divine addition, providing a cooling counterpoint to the buffalo spice. Don’t hesitate to slice up some ripe avocado to serve alongside; its natural creaminess and healthy fats pair wonderfully with the rich chicken filling.

But the fun doesn’t stop there!

This recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to get creative in your kitchen. While chicken is the star here, you could easily experiment with other compliant proteins. Ground turkey, seasoned similarly, would make an excellent substitute for a slightly leaner option, or even shredded beef for a richer flavor profile. For those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals, you could adapt the filling with seasoned lentils, cauliflower “rice,” or even finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian (though no longer Paleo/Whole30 without significant modification) twist, always being mindful of your specific dietary requirements. If you’re not strictly Whole30 or Paleo, but still watching carbs, feel free to add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese alternative or even a touch of compliant dairy-free cream cheese into the filling for an extra layer of richness. Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking; add more hot sauce for a fiery kick, or dial it back with less for a milder version. You could even use other vegetables as your “vessel” – imagine Buffalo Chicken stuffed zucchini boats or giant portobello mushrooms for a different presentation. And if you happen to have any leftover filling, it’s fantastic on its own, served over a bed of greens, or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a quick lunch the next day. The possibilities are truly endless!

So, there you have it. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s an affirmation that delicious, soul-satisfying food can absolutely align with your health and wellness goals. I’ve shared my tips and tricks, my serving suggestions, and my ideas for variations, but now it’s your turn. I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give these incredible stuffed peppers a try. I am confident that you will be absolutely thrilled with the results – the vibrant flavors, the comforting textures, and the knowledge that you’ve created something truly special and nourishing. Please, don’t keep this culinary delight to yourself! Once you’ve experienced the magic, come back and share your thoughts, your photos, and any creative twists you came up with. Your feedback and personal touches are what make our cooking community so vibrant and inspiring. Happy cooking, and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite healthy comfort food!