Name: Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: ½ cup whole-grain bulgur; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion; 4 cloves garlic; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; ¾ tsp red chili flakes; 1½ tsp kosher salt; 1 lb ground chicken; 15 oz diced tomatoes; ½ cup fresh cilantro; ½ cup fresh mint; 6 medium bell peppers; For Yogurt Sauce:; 1½ cups Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1½ tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; ¼ cup fresh mint; ¾ tsp kosher salt

Elevate your weeknight dinners with kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers paired with a refreshing yogurt mint sauce. This recipe combines the rich, spiced flavors of Middle Eastern kofta with the wholesome goodness of bell peppers, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.

Photos of Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe

When preparing this recipe, it's important to note that some ingredients might not be staples in every household. Whole-grain bulgur, often found in the grains or health food aisle, adds a unique texture and nutty flavor. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint are essential for the authentic taste, so make sure to pick them up from the produce section. Greek yogurt, a key component for the sauce, is typically located in the dairy aisle.

Ingredients for Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce

Whole-grain bulgur: A nutritious grain that adds texture and a nutty flavor to the stuffing.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing and in the yogurt sauce, providing rich flavor and healthy fats.

Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling.

Garlic: Infuses the stuffing with a robust, aromatic flavor.

Ground cumin: A warm spice that gives the dish its characteristic Middle Eastern flavor.

Ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet note to the stuffing.

Red chili flakes: Provides a hint of heat to balance the flavors.

Kosher salt: Enhances the taste of all the ingredients.

Ground chicken: The main protein in the dish, offering a leaner option compared to traditional kofta.

Diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a tangy sweetness to the filling.

Fresh cilantro: Brings a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the stuffing.

Fresh mint: Adds a refreshing, aromatic touch to both the stuffing and the yogurt sauce.

Bell peppers: Serve as the edible vessel, providing a sweet and slightly crunchy contrast to the savory filling.

Greek yogurt: The base for the yogurt mint sauce, offering a creamy and tangy element.

Lemon juice: Adds brightness and acidity to the sauce.

One reader, Berti Girard says:

This kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors! The spices blend perfectly with the tender chicken, and the yogurt mint sauce adds a refreshing touch. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it's a new favorite in our household. Highly recommend!

Berti Girard

Techniques Required

Yes.

How to cook bulgur: Bring water to a boil, add bulgur, reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook until tender. How to sauté onions and garlic: Heat oil in a skillet, add onions and garlic, and cook until tender. How to prepare bell peppers: Cut tops off, remove seeds and membranes, and set upright in a baking pan. How to make yogurt sauce: Stir together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, mint, and salt in a small bowl.

How To Make Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce

Taking a cue from Middle Eastern cuisine, these stuffed peppers are filled chicken, onions, garlic, and an assortment of fresh herbs for a festive dish.

Preparation: 35 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½cupwhole-grain bulgur
1tbspextra-virgin olive oil
1medium yellow onion,chopped
4clovesgarlic,large, minced
2tspground cumin
1tspground coriander
¾tspred chili flakes
1½tspkosher salt
1lbground chicken
15ozdiced tomatoes,(1 can or 2 medium tomatoes), drained well
½cupfresh cilantro,chopped
½cupfresh mint,chopped
6medium bell peppers,red, yellow, or green

For Yogurt Sauce:

1½cupsGreek yogurt,(non- or low-fat plain)
2tbspextra-virgin olive oil
1½tbspfresh lemon juice,(from 1 lemon)
¼cupfresh mint,finely chopped
¾tspkosher salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In a medium saucepan bring 1¼ cups water to a boil. Add the bulgur and stir. Reduce the heat to medium-low so it simmers. Cover the pan and cook for about 12 minutes until tender. Set aside.
In a large skillet set over medium-high heat add the olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the onion and garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes until tender.
Add the cumin, coriander, chili flakes, salt, chicken, and tomatoes. Cook for about 7 minutes just until the chicken is done, breaking it up like taco meat. Stir in the cilantro, mint, and cooked bulgur. Remove from heat.
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and pull out the seeds and membranes. Set the peppers upright in a baking pan large enough to accommodate them.
Divide the filling among the peppers. Set the tops on the peppers. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly shriveled, but still firm.

Yogurt Sauce:

In a small bowl, stir together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, mint, and kosher salt.
Serve peppers warm with yogurt sauce on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 339.26kcal
Fat: 17.75g
Saturated Fat: 5.18g
Trans Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.17g
Carbohydrates: 25.14g
Fiber: 6.74g
Sugar: 10.17g
Protein: 22.55g
Cholesterol: 74.59mg
Sodium: 879.35mg
Calcium: 129.47mg
Potassium: 947.85mg
Iron: 3.85mg
Vitamin A: 233.77µg
Vitamin C: 166.51mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

When preparing the bulgur, make sure to fluff it with a fork after cooking to separate the grains and prevent clumping. This will ensure a light and airy texture that blends seamlessly with the ground chicken mixture, enhancing the overall stuffing for the bell peppers.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Prepare the filling in advance: Cook the bulgur and chicken mixture a day ahead and store in the fridge. This way, you only need to stuff and bake the peppers on the day of serving.

Use pre-chopped ingredients: Buy pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time on prep work.

Make the yogurt sauce ahead: Prepare the yogurt mint sauce the night before and keep it refrigerated. This allows the flavors to meld and saves you time on the day of cooking.

Opt for quick-cooking bulgur: Choose a quick-cooking bulgur variety to reduce the cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe

whole-grain bulgur - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa has a similar texture and is also a whole grain, making it a nutritious alternative.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, suitable for cooking.
yellow onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the dish well.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable; it provides a similar flavor profile.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground caraway seeds: Caraway seeds have a similar earthy flavor, making them a good alternative.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground fennel seeds: Fennel seeds offer a sweet and aromatic flavor, similar to coriander.
red chili flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar level of heat and can be used in smaller quantities.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a suitable replacement.
ground chicken - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a good alternative.
diced tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar consistency and flavor for the dish.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh and slightly peppery flavor.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil provides a sweet and aromatic flavor that can complement the dish.
bell peppers - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers have a similar shape and can be stuffed, offering a slightly different flavor.
greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a good alternative.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and is suitable for dressings and sauces.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and fresh citrus flavor.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh dill: Fresh dill offers a unique and aromatic flavor that can complement the yogurt sauce.
kosher salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a suitable replacement.

Presentation Ideas for Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Use vibrant colors: Select bell peppers of different colors like red, yellow, and orange to create a visually appealing plate. The contrast between the stuffed peppers and the yogurt mint sauce will be striking.
Create a base layer: Spread a thin layer of the yogurt mint sauce on the plate before placing the stuffed peppers. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the peppers in place.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh cilantro and fresh mint over the top of the stuffed peppers and around the plate. This adds a pop of green and a fresh aroma.
Add texture: Toast some whole-grain bulgur until golden and sprinkle it around the plate for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Use height and layers: Place the stuffed peppers upright and slightly overlapping each other to create a sense of height and dimension on the plate.
Drizzle with olive oil: Finish with a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil over the stuffed peppers and yogurt mint sauce for a glossy finish and added richness.
Serve with a lemon wedge: Add a small wedge of fresh lemon on the side of the plate. This not only adds a burst of color but also allows diners to add a fresh squeeze of citrus to their dish.
Use elegant plating: Choose a large, white plate to serve the dish. The simplicity of the plate will make the vibrant colors of the stuffed peppers and yogurt mint sauce stand out.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Medium saucepan: Used to cook the bulgur by bringing water to a boil and then simmering it until tender.
Large skillet: Essential for sautéing the onion and garlic, and cooking the chicken mixture with spices and tomatoes.
Baking pan: Holds the bell peppers upright while they bake in the oven.
Small bowl: Ideal for mixing the yogurt sauce ingredients together.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping the onion, garlic, cilantro, and mint, as well as cutting the tops off the bell peppers.
Chef's knife: Necessary for finely chopping the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the bulgur, Greek yogurt, and other ingredients accurately.
Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurement of spices, olive oil, and lemon juice.
Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the bulgur, sautéing the vegetables, and mixing the chicken filling.
Oven: Preheated to 400 degrees F, it bakes the stuffed peppers until they are tender and slightly shriveled.
Mixing spoon: Useful for combining the yogurt sauce ingredients smoothly.
Tongs: Helps in placing the stuffed peppers in the baking pan and removing them once cooked.
Lid: Used to cover the medium saucepan while cooking the bulgur.
Serving platter: Perfect for presenting the stuffed peppers alongside the yogurt mint sauce.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

To store leftover kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the stuffed peppers, wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal. Place the wrapped peppers in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of peppers from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat the stuffed peppers, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If the peppers are frozen, you may need to increase the reheating time to 30-35 minutes.
The yogurt mint sauce is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Give the sauce a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed peppers in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The foil will help prevent the peppers from drying out and keep the filling moist.
For a quicker reheat, use the microwave. Place the stuffed peppers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. The damp paper towel will help keep the peppers moist and prevent them from drying out.
If you have leftover filling and yogurt sauce, you can reheat them separately. Place the filling in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For the yogurt sauce, it's best to let it come to room temperature before serving, as microwaving may cause it to separate.
To add a crispy texture to the reheated stuffed peppers, place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after reheating in the oven or microwave. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have a lot of leftover stuffed peppers, consider freezing them for later. Wrap each pepper individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, remove the plastic wrap and follow the oven reheating method, increasing the baking time to 30-35 minutes.

Random Fact about Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

A random fact about this recipe is that bulgur is a whole grain made from cracked wheat, which is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to the kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers, making the dish both nutritious and satisfying.

Is Making Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers at Home Cost-Effective?

This kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing affordable ingredients like ground chicken, bell peppers, and bulgur, it balances nutrition and flavor without breaking the bank. The yogurt mint sauce adds a refreshing touch without adding significant cost. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option for dinner.

Are Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers Healthy?

This kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers recipe is a healthier twist on a classic dish. The use of whole-grain bulgur, lean ground chicken, and an abundance of fresh herbs and spices makes it a nutritious choice. The bell peppers provide a good source of vitamin C, while the yogurt mint sauce adds a protein-rich and cooling element to the dish.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its health benefits:

Opt for low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt in the sauce to reduce the overall fat content
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding diced zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture
Use a combination of different colored bell peppers to provide a wider range of antioxidants and phytonutrients
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, especially if using canned diced tomatoes which may already contain added sodium

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Serve the stuffed peppers alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for added fiber and nutrients
Use a mixture of half ground chicken and half ground turkey to further reduce the fat content while maintaining a similar texture and flavor
Incorporate additional whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, into the filling for an extra boost of fiber and complex carbohydrates
Experiment with using a variety of fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or dill, to add depth of flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Kofta-Style Chicken Dish

This recipe for kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers with yogurt mint sauce is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of ground chicken, bulgur, and aromatic spices creates a hearty and satisfying filling, while the fresh herbs add a burst of freshness. The yogurt mint sauce provides a creamy and tangy contrast that complements the savory peppers perfectly. Baking the peppers ensures they are tender yet firm, making them an ideal vessel for the flavorful stuffing. Overall, this dish is a well-balanced and delicious option for a wholesome meal.

Enhance Your Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will complement the kofta-style chicken stuffed peppers perfectly, adding a comforting and savory element to your meal.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring fluffy quinoa, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy feta cheese. Tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, this side dish brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will elevate your dining experience.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears, lightly charred on the grill and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. This simple yet elegant side dish adds a touch of brightness and a hint of smokiness, perfectly balancing the hearty stuffed peppers.

Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet potato wedges are seasoned with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon and paprika. They offer a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors that will harmonize beautifully with the kofta-style chicken.

Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous infused with a medley of fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, and basil. This light and aromatic side dish provides a delicate backdrop that allows the bold flavors of the stuffed peppers to shine.

Similar Recipes to Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Mediterranean Stuffed Eggplants: Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean with these stuffed eggplants. Filled with a savory mix of ground lamb, quinoa, and aromatic spices, these eggplants are roasted to perfection and topped with a tangy tahini sauce.

Greek Chicken Meatballs with Tzatziki: These juicy chicken meatballs are infused with oregano, garlic, and feta cheese. Serve them with a refreshing tzatziki sauce made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, and dill for a delightful meal.

Moroccan Spiced Lamb Stuffed Peppers: Experience the exotic flavors of Morocco with these stuffed peppers. Filled with spiced ground lamb, couscous, and a medley of dried fruits, these peppers are baked until tender and served with a dollop of harissa yogurt sauce.

Spicy Beef and Rice Stuffed Zucchini: These zucchini boats are packed with a spicy mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes. Baked until the zucchini is tender, they are topped with melted cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Quinoa and Black Bean Stuffed Peppers: A vegetarian delight, these stuffed peppers are filled with a hearty mix of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices. Baked to perfection, they are served with a zesty avocado lime sauce.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushroom caps are filled with a delectable mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tender mushroom exterior, creating a harmonious bite-sized treat. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Crispy toasted baguette slices are topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes provide a juicy burst of flavor, while the basil adds a fragrant note. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze for an irresistible appetizer.

Desserts:

Baklava: Indulge in layers of phyllo dough filled with a mixture of chopped nuts and spices. This dessert is drenched in a honey syrup infused with citrus zest and cinnamon. The result is a crispy, sweet, and aromatic treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of strong coffee or tea. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful end to any meal.

Tiramisu: Experience the rich and creamy layers of mascarpone cheese and espresso-soaked ladyfingers. This Italian classic is enhanced with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of coffee liqueur. The balance of sweetness and bitterness creates a sophisticated dessert that melts in your mouth. Perfect for those who appreciate a luxurious and decadent finish to their dining experience.

Why trust this Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers with Yogurt Mint Sauce Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground cumin, coriander, and red chili flakes with the freshness of cilantro and mint. The ground chicken and bulgur create a hearty filling, while the bell peppers add a sweet, tender shell. The yogurt mint sauce provides a creamy, tangy contrast that elevates the dish. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors, ease of preparation, and the use of wholesome ingredients.

Want to share your experience making these Kofta-Style Chicken Stuffed Peppers or discuss the recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the bulgur is cooked?

The bulgur is done when it's tender and has absorbed most of the water. It usually takes about 12 minutes. If there's any excess water, you can drain it off.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even lamb if you prefer. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly.

What can I do if I don't have fresh herbs?

If you don't have fresh cilantro or mint, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How long does the yogurt mint sauce last in the fridge?

The yogurt mint sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate them. When you're ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes and then bake as directed.