The smoky, mild heat of poblano peppers pairs beautifully with a rich, Cheesy Chicken and Corn Stuffed Poblano Peppers. This Tex-Mex inspired dish is hearty, flavorful, and packed with just the right amount of spice. Each bite delivers a satisfying combination of melted cheese, juicy chicken, and the natural sweetness of corn. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep option that tastes even better the next day. Serve it alongside some Mexican rice or a simple side salad for a complete and delicious meal. Plus, it’s easy to customize—swap in ground turkey, add black beans, or drizzle with sour cream for an extra indulgence!
Full recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 3 poblano peppers
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 16 ounces ground chicken (454g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons diced green chilies
- 1 cup taco sauce or enchilada sauce
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or taco blend)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Cut the poblano peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- While the peppers are baking, heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground chicken, salt, pepper, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned and the onion is softened.
- Stir in diced green chilies, taco sauce, and corn. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce is heated through.
- Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheese and cilantro.
- Spoon the chicken filling into the baked poblano pepper halves. Use small foil balls to keep them stable if necessary.
- Sprinkle more shredded cheese on top and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 439 kcal | Servings: 3
Cheesy Chicken and Corn Stuffed Poblano Peppers: A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, melted cheese, and a satisfying yet easy-to-make meal, these Cheesy Chicken and Corn Stuffed Poblano Peppers are exactly what you need. This dish combines smoky roasted poblano peppers with a deliciously seasoned ground chicken filling, enriched with sweet corn, melty cheese, and taco-seasoned goodness. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a meal for guests, or even meal prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this incredible dish—from the background of poblano peppers and why they make the perfect stuffing pepper to the health benefits and customization options that make this recipe the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food.
The History & Origin of Poblano Peppers
Poblano peppers originated in the state of Puebla, Mexico, where they have been a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine for centuries. These large, dark green chili peppers are mildly spicy, making them a popular choice for stuffing and roasting. One of the most famous dishes featuring poblanos is Chiles Rellenos, where they are traditionally stuffed with cheese or meat, coated in egg batter, and fried. Our recipe puts a Tex-Mex spin on this classic preparation, stuffing the roasted poblanos with seasoned ground chicken, corn, and cheese. The result is a dish that offers the best of both worlds—rich, cheesy comfort food with a smoky, slightly spicy kick.
Why This Recipe is the Best
This recipe stands out because of its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and its ability to be customized based on dietary preferences. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of the mild heat from poblanos, the savory spiced chicken, the sweetness of corn, and the gooey cheese creates an irresistible dish that satisfies all taste buds.
- Nutritious Yet Indulgent – With a mix of lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and healthy fats, this dish is both hearty and wholesome.
- Easy to Customize – Swap out the chicken for turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian alternative. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor – With simple steps and easily available ingredients, this recipe proves that gourmet meals don’t have to be complicated.
Health Benefits of Stuffed Poblano Peppers
While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients that make it a healthier alternative to heavier Tex-Mex dishes. Let’s break down some of its nutritional benefits:
1. Poblano Peppers – A Nutrient Powerhouse
- Poblano peppers are low in calories yet rich in essential vitamins, particularly vitamin C (important for immune health) and vitamin A (good for vision and skin). They also contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation in the body.
2. Lean Protein from Chicken
- Ground chicken is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall health. If you’re watching your fat intake, you can opt for lean ground chicken or turkey.
3. Corn – A Naturally Sweet & Fiber-Rich Ingredient
- Corn adds a slight sweetness to balance out the smoky and savory flavors. It is high in fiber, which aids digestion, and provides essential minerals like magnesium and potassium.
4. Cheese – The Comfort Factor
- While cheese adds that creamy, melty goodness we all love, it also provides calcium and protein. Using a moderate amount ensures you enjoy the flavor without making the dish overly heavy.
5. Cilantro – A Fresh, Detoxifying Herb
- Cilantro not only adds a fresh, herby taste but also has detoxifying properties, helping the body eliminate heavy metals and toxins.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
1. Roasting the Poblanos
- Roasting poblanos enhances their natural smokiness and softens them for stuffing. You can roast them in the oven or over an open flame for extra charred flavor.
2. Preparing the Filling
- Cooking the chicken with onions, garlic, green chilies, taco sauce, and corn ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Adding cheese at the end gives the filling a creamy, cohesive texture.
3. Stuffing & Baking
- Once the peppers are roasted and slightly cooled, stuff them generously with the chicken mixture, top with extra cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden.
4. Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Serve these stuffed poblanos with Mexican rice, guacamole, or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with sour cream, salsa, or a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
- Pair with a refreshing margarita or agua fresca for a truly authentic experience.
Recipe Customization & Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Here are some fun variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for black beans, quinoa, or lentils.
- Spicier Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely.
- Beef or Turkey Variation: Substitute the ground chicken with lean ground beef or turkey.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the corn and add chopped zucchini or cauliflower rice instead.
Storage & Reheating Tips
These stuffed poblanos store beautifully and taste just as good (if not better) the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: These peppers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are poblano peppers spicy?
- Poblano peppers have a very mild heat, significantly lower than jalapeños. If you prefer an even milder version, you can substitute them with bell peppers.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply stuff the peppers and bake.
3. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
- Besides cheddar and taco blend cheese, you can try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a bit of crumbled queso fresco for a different twist.
4. How can I make this dish even more filling?
- Add black beans, rice, or extra veggies to the filling to make this a more substantial meal.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken and Corn Stuffed Poblano Peppers are an irresistible combination of savory, cheesy, and slightly smoky flavors that bring a Tex-Mex twist to your dinner table. They are healthy, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb, protein-packed meal or just want to enjoy some seriously delicious comfort food, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try, and let us know how you like it! Happy cooking!