Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers (Halloween Style) are a fun and festive twist on a classic comfort meal. Bright bell peppers are filled with a hearty mix of shredded chicken, rice, and flavorful seasonings, then baked until tender and delicious. The Halloween style comes from the creative way the peppers are carved or decorated, making them perfect for a spooky dinner that’s still full of homey goodness.
I love making these stuffed peppers when I want a meal that’s both hearty and a little playful. The shredded chicken is juicy, and the rice soaks up all those tasty spices, making every bite satisfying. Plus, the colorful peppers add a pop of fun, especially when you carve jack-o’-lantern faces on them — it adds an extra smile to the dinner table.
My favorite way to serve these is with a simple side salad or some crunchy veggies to balance out the warm, soft filling. It’s a dish that kids and adults both enjoy, and it’s a great way to make Halloween dinner a bit more special without spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve found that the leftovers taste just as good the next day, making this recipe a real winner for busy nights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: Choose large peppers that stand up well and have smooth sides for carving. Orange, green, or yellow work great for the Halloween look. If you can’t find fresh ones, large tomatoes can be a fun, juicy alternative.
Shredded Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor, but leftover roasted chicken or boiled chicken breast works well, too. For a vegetarian version, use cooked beans or lentils instead of chicken.
Rice: I usually use cooked white rice, but brown or even quinoa are fine swaps. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing, so the peppers and filling bake evenly.
Tomato Sauce or Salsa: Tomato sauce adds a mild tang, while salsa brings a bit more spice. Pick based on your heat preference. You can also use canned diced tomatoes if you want more texture.
Cheese: A Mexican cheese blend or mozzarella melts nicely on top. If you prefer dairy-free, use a plant-based cheese that melts, or skip it for a lighter option.
How Do I Carve the Peppers Safely and Easily for That Halloween Look?
Carving peppers to look like jack-o’-lanterns is fun but needs a steady hand.
- Use a small, sharp paring knife or a specialized pumpkin carving tool for control.
- Draw your design on the pepper with a marker before cutting.
- Cut small holes for the eyes and mouth slowly, twisting the knife gently to avoid tearing the pepper skin.
- Keep the cuts simple—triangles and wide smiles are easiest.
- If carving feels tricky, practice on an extra pepper before the real deal!
Once carved, your peppers are ready to stuff and bake, creating a striking festive touch to your meal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – holds the stuffed peppers upright and catches any drips while baking.
- Sharp paring knife – perfect for carving the jack-o’-lantern faces on the peppers.
- Cutting board – great for safely prepping peppers and chopping ingredients.
- Large skillet – you’ll use this to sauté onions, garlic, and mix the filling.
- Spoon – to stuff the peppers evenly and neatly with the chicken and rice mixture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shredded chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different protein flavor.
- Mix in black beans or corn for extra texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a bit of melt and heat.
How to Make Shredded Chicken & Rice Stuffed Peppers (Halloween Style)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Peppers and Filling:
- 3 large bell peppers (orange, green, or yellow), tops cut off and seeds removed; carve jack-o’-lantern faces on the front
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or salsa
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Topping and Garnish:
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including carving and making the filling, plus 25-30 minutes to bake the stuffed peppers until tender and the cheese melts to perfection. In total, plan for around 45 minutes from start to finish. A quick and fun meal idea for a festive occasion like Halloween!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peppers:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off each bell pepper and remove the seeds and membranes. Carefully carve fun jack-o’-lantern faces into the front of each pepper with a small knife. Set peppers aside.
2. Make the Filling:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add shredded chicken, cooked rice, tomato sauce or salsa, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and cook for 3-5 minutes to blend flavors and warm the filling. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat.
3. Stuff and Bake the Peppers:
Spoon the chicken and rice mixture into each carved bell pepper, filling them generously and mounding a bit on top. Place the stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese melts and turns golden.
4. Serve:
Remove the peppers from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a colorful, fresh garnish. Serve hot and enjoy your fun, festive Halloween meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Filling?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before shredding. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Prepare the Peppers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can carve and stuff the peppers a few hours before baking. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving to keep the peppers fresh and the cheese melted perfectly.
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Peppers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the peppers from drying out, cover them with foil while reheating.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With These Stuffed Peppers?
These Halloween-style stuffed peppers pair well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of black beans for a wholesome meal. Choose sides that add freshness and crunch to balance the warm filling.
