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Stuffed Capsicum with Herbed Chicken

I usually only use green capsicum as they’re half the price of their red and yellow cousins, but when they were on offer this week, I thought it was high time to cook something capsicumy. What better than the classic stuffed capsicum? I’d usually make this with minced beef, but I fancied a change, so thought I’d give it a try with shredded chicken instead.

I always used to cut the tops of the capsicum, stuff them, put the lid back on, then cook them standing up. However, it’s not easy to find ones that will remain standing up and also I think they’re harder to eat and not so attractive on the plate this way. I served mine sliced in half lengthways and retained the stalk partly to stop the stuffing falling out, and partly because it looks good! Unfortunately, cutting them for this dish means I can't use my genius capsicum cutting technique.

I used mushrooms, carrots, and a zucchini for the stuffing, but this is a great way to use up whatever vegetables you happen to have.

Hint: Take care choosing your capsicums! You’ll find the ones with 4 points at the base will sit far better in the oven than those with 3 points.

Stuffed Capsicum paleo diet recipe bell peppers dinner lunch chicken-min
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Recipe: Stuffed Capsicum

This Stuffed Capsicum (bell peppers) with Chicken is a delicious and nutritious Paleo dinner option. Filled with fresh vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Perfect for a comforting winter meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Paleo
Keyword: Chicken Stuffed Capsicum, Healthy Dinner Recipe, paleo dinner, stuffed bell peppers, Stuffed Capsicum, stuffed peppers
Servings: 2
Calories: 350kcal
Cost: 15

Equipment

  • Baking Tray
  • Frying pan

Ingredients

  • 3 colourful capsicums bell peppers
  • Dash of coconut oil
  • 2 brown onions diced into small pieces
  • 1 tin chopped tomatoes
  • 1 bottle of pasata
  • 1 zucchini diced into small pieces
  • 6 mushrooms diced into small pieces
  • 2 carrots diced into small pieces
  • 1 tbsp oregano
  • 1 tsp of chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Sea salt & black pepper to taste
  • Cooked shredded chicken

Instructions

  • First, cut the capsicums lengthways, ensuring the two halves will sit nicely before making the cut. Deseed the capsicum and trim the insides and bottom of the stalk ensuring there is lots of room for them to be filled. Put the halves empty side up on a baking tray.
  • Pre-heat the oven to 175C
  • Then, fry the onions in the coconut oil over medium heat, until they soften.
  • Next, add in the tomatoes and passata, then stir in the veggies.
  • Allow the mixture to simmer for 20-30 minutes, then add the herbs, spices, and seasoning.
  • Add in the chicken to heat up, and once the carrots have softened, remove the pan from the heat.
  • Spoon the mixture into the capsicum halves and push down with the back of a spoon, ensuring they are completely filled.
  • Put the stuffed capsicums in the oven and cook until the capsicum has softened to your liking, ensuring they don’t burn! This should just take a few minutes.

Why Stuffed Capsicum Is a Paleo Favourite

Stuffed capsicum (or bell peppers, depending on where you’re from) is a classic dish for good reason. It ticks so many boxes: it’s nutritious, naturally gluten-free, and easily adaptable to suit the Paleo lifestyle. Using shredded chicken rather than the usual mince brings a lighter, leaner feel to the dish without sacrificing flavour or satisfaction.

This recipe also allows you to incorporate a wide range of colourful vegetables, boosting both the nutrient content and the visual appeal of the meal. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare, family-friendly, and makes excellent leftovers for lunch the next day.

Choosing the Best Capsicums for Stuffing

Not all capsicums are created equal when it comes to stuffing. Look for firm, unblemished capsicums that are roughly the same size, so they cook evenly. Red, yellow, and orange varieties tend to be sweeter than green, which can be slightly bitter, but green capsicum remains a budget-friendly and flavourful option.

If you plan to slice them lengthways, like in this recipe, try to find capsicums with four points at the base rather than three. They’ll sit more steadily in your baking tray and hold their filling better.

How to Cook Chicken for Stuffed Capsicum

This recipe is perfect for using leftover roast or poached chicken. If starting from scratch, you can bake, steam, or poach chicken breasts until cooked through and shred with two forks. Using shredded chicken gives a tender texture and allows the meat to absorb the spices and vegetable flavours beautifully.

To boost flavour, consider tossing the shredded chicken with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of paprika or cumin before combining it with the rest of the stuffing ingredients.

Ideas for Stuffing Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile and ideal for using up what you’ve already got in the fridge. Here are a few other vegetables and additions that work well in the stuffing:

  • Finely chopped spinach or kale
  • Leftover roasted vegetables like pumpkin or sweet potato
  • Grated cauliflower for extra fibre
  • Fresh herbs such as parsley, coriander, or oregano
  • Chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist

Don't be afraid to experiment. The only essential is balancing moisture so the filling isn’t too wet, which could make the capsicums soggy.

Can You Make These Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for prepping in advance. You can fully assemble the stuffed capsicums and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, cook a big batch and refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

These also freeze well. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap individually and freeze. To reheat, pop them in a moderate oven straight from frozen or allow to defrost overnight in the fridge first.

What to Serve with Stuffed Capsicums

These stuffed capsicums are a complete meal on their own, but you can make them part of a larger feast by adding:

  • Cauliflower rice with herbs and lemon
  • Grilled asparagus or green beans
  • A simple avocado and tomato salad
  • Steamed broccoli with a drizzle of tahini

If you have extra filling, it makes a wonderful side dish on its own or served in lettuce cups for a light lunch.

Making It Kid-Friendly

If your kids aren’t fans of capsicum, try scooping some of the filling into hollowed-out zucchini boats or halved sweet potatoes. You can also keep the chilli or strong herbs minimal and serve the capsicums with a mild tomato salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping.

Freezing and Storage Tips

Whether you're meal prepping for the week ahead or saving leftovers, this recipe is freezer-friendly and reheats well. Wrap each capsicum half in baking paper and store in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, unwrap and bake in a covered dish at 180°C until warmed through.

Cooked stuffed capsicums will keep in the fridge for 2 to 3 days. Store in a sealed container and reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

Why This Recipe Works for Paleo

This recipe uses whole, unprocessed ingredients that align perfectly with a Paleo lifestyle. Chicken is a great lean protein source, while the vegetables add fibre, vitamins, and texture. There are no grains, dairy, or processed sauces – just real food, seasoned well.

You can tailor the ingredients to suit your needs. If you're avoiding nightshades, try stuffing zucchini or mushrooms instead of capsicums. Want a higher-fat version? Mix some chopped avocado or a drizzle of olive oil into the stuffing before baking.

Trying Out Stuffed Capsicum with Chicken

Trying out this Stuffed Capsicum with Chicken recipe will not only make your dinner delicious but also align perfectly with your Paleo diet. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables and tender chicken in a colourful and flavourful presentation.

One of the best parts about this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand, making it a great option for using up leftovers or seasonal produce. The combination of spices and herbs gives it a wonderful aroma and taste, making each bite a delight.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to impress. And remember, if you end up with extra stuffing, it freezes well for future meals. Enjoy a healthy, satisfying, and flavourful dinner with this Stuffed Capsicum with Chicken recipe.

For more creative Paleo recipes, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media! We love hearing from you, so please share your thoughts and variations of this recipe in the comments below. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Stuffed Capsicum paleo diet recipe bell peppers dinner lunch chicken

How to Cut a Bell Pepper (Step-by-Step Guide)

How do you cut yours? I always used to get seeds everywhere when I cut up a capsicum (or bell pepper as they're known elsewhere in the world), until I found this technique. No mess, no wastage – and best of all the seeds stay together and can be easily removed.

Tutorial: How to Cut a Bell Pepper (Capsicum)

So all you need to do is:

  • Cut the top and bottom off the bell pepper/ capsicum
  • Next to one of the white sections, connecting the outside to the seeds, make a cut down
  • Open out the side of the pepper/ capsicum, cutting away the pieces attached to the centre as you go
  • Remove the seed section
  • Put out the stalk from the top of the capsicum/ bell pepper
  • Now you have three clean sections to cut up!

Why Learning How to Cut a Bell Pepper Properly Matters

Learning how to cut a bell pepper – or capsicum, as we say here in Australia – might seem basic, but the truth is, most people waste a surprising amount of this versatile veggie. Whether you're prepping for a Paleo stir-fry, stuffing them with mince, or slicing capsicum for snacking, the technique you use can make a big difference. A clean, mess-free method not only saves time but helps you get the most out of your produce.

Before I discovered this method, I used to butcher my poor capsicums. I'd slice straight down the middle, spilling seeds everywhere, and then spend ages trying to pull out the pithy white bits. Half the time I'd lose some of the actual flesh or end up with awkward shapes that were hard to cook evenly. Sound familiar?

Now, cutting a capsicum is quick, clean, and kind of satisfying. And once you master this technique, I promise you’ll never go back.

What You’ll Need

There’s nothing fancy required – just a few kitchen basics:

  • A clean chopping board
  • A sharp chef’s knife (dull knives increase the risk of injury and make the job harder)
  • Your chosen bell pepper/capsicum

If you're working with organic produce, give it a quick rinse and pat dry before starting. Organic capsicums are often sweeter and contain fewer pesticide residues, making them a great option if you're following a clean Paleo lifestyle.

Step-by-Step Instructions Recap

Let’s quickly revisit the technique mentioned in the original post, now with a bit more detail and visualisation to help you really master it:

  1. Slice off the top and bottom: Use a sharp knife to cleanly cut off both ends of the capsicum. This gives you a stable base and exposes the internal structure.
  2. Make a vertical cut next to the white rib: Look for the internal white membrane (the pith) and make a straight downward cut alongside it.
  3. Open the capsicum: Gently roll it out flat as you cut around the inside, carefully slicing the flesh away from the core and seed section. The seeds should stay in a neat clump.
  4. Remove the seed pod: Once the capsicum is opened out like a sheet, simply lift the seed section out and discard or compost it.
  5. Trim the top and bottom pieces: You’ll find a surprising amount of usable flesh on the capsicum’s top and bottom. Slice off the stem and dice these pieces too – no wastage!

You now have several flat, clean pieces of capsicum ready for slicing, dicing, or stuffing. No seed explosions, no messy bits stuck in your knife, and no frustration.

What’s the Best Way to Slice a Bell Pepper?

Once you’ve opened and cleaned your capsicum, you can slice it depending on what you need it for. Here are some quick ideas:

  • Thin strips – perfect for stir-fries, salads, and wraps
  • Diced – great for omelettes, sauces, or taco fillings
  • Thick rings – ideal for stuffing or grilling
  • Julienned – long, thin matchstick shapes, perfect for snacking or veggie trays

Try to keep your slices even in size. This helps with presentation but, more importantly, ensures everything cooks evenly – especially if you're roasting or sautéing your capsicum as part of a Paleo meal.

Choosing the Right Capsicum

Not all bell peppers are created equal. Here’s how to choose the best ones next time you’re at the market:

  • Look for firmness: A fresh capsicum should feel heavy for its size and be firm with no soft spots.
  • Check the skin: It should be shiny and smooth, with no wrinkles or dull patches.
  • Pick your colour wisely: Red, yellow, and orange capsicums are ripe and sweet, while green capsicums are slightly bitter but still great in certain dishes.

Remember, all coloured capsicums start green. As they ripen, they change colour – and develop higher vitamin C and beta-carotene content. Red capsicums are particularly rich in antioxidants, making them a Paleo nutrient powerhouse.

Capsicum Nutrition: Why They Belong in a Paleo Diet

Capsicums are incredibly Paleo-friendly. They’re low in calories, high in fibre, and packed with nutrients – especially vitamin C, vitamin A, and several important phytonutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin.

Here’s a quick overview of what you get from just one medium red bell pepper:

  • Over 150% of your daily vitamin C
  • Good source of vitamin B6, folate, and potassium
  • Rich in antioxidants, which support immune function and reduce inflammation

They’re also naturally sweet without being sugary, which makes them an excellent choice for those trying to reduce their overall carbohydrate intake while still enjoying flavour and texture variety.

How to Store Cut Capsicum

Once you’ve mastered how to cut a bell pepper cleanly, the next step is storing it properly. If you’ve sliced more than you need, here’s how to keep it fresh:

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container – cut capsicum will stay fresh for 3–5 days when stored properly
  • Wrap in a paper towel – to absorb excess moisture and reduce sogginess
  • Freeze for later – you can freeze sliced capsicum in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for longer-term storage (great for cooked dishes, not raw eating)

Paleo Meal Ideas Using Bell Peppers

Need inspiration for what to do with your neatly cut capsicum? Here are a few quick and easy Paleo meal ideas that celebrate this colourful ingredient:

  • Paleo Chilli: Sauté capsicum with garlic, onion, and beef mince, add tomatoes and spices – the perfect winter warmer.
  • Stuffed Capsicum: Fill with ground meat, cauliflower rice, herbs, and bake until golden.
  • Egg & Capsicum Muffins: Mix chopped capsicum into eggs and pour into muffin tins for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.
  • Grilled Veggie Skewers: Alternate capsicum chunks with zucchini, onion, and meat or seafood – perfect on the BBQ.
  • Raw Snack Platter: Dip capsicum strips into guacamole or almond butter for a quick, nutrient-dense snack.

Bonus Tips: Get the Kids Involved

Capsicum is one of those kid-friendly veggies that’s sweet, crunchy, and easy to cut into fun shapes. If you’re trying to get children to eat more vegetables (especially if you're raising Paleo kids), capsicum is your friend.

Let little ones help wash and arrange the slices, or give them small safe knives to help cut under supervision. Capsicum “boats” or “flowers” make lunchboxes far more exciting than a soggy sandwich ever could.

Final Thoughts on How to Cut a Bell Pepper

It’s a small kitchen skill – but knowing how to cut a bell pepper the right way can save time, reduce waste, and make your Paleo meals easier to prepare. Once you get the hang of this no-seed, no-mess technique, you’ll wonder how you ever did it differently.

Got your own method for slicing capsicum? Or a favourite Paleo recipe that uses heaps of them? Let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear how you make the most of this versatile veggie in your kitchen.

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