There’s an undeniable joy that comes with biting into a perfectly grilled pepper, especially when it’s bursting with flavor and wrapped in crispy bacon. Picture this: the sweet, smoky aroma wafting through your kitchen as the Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers sizzle away on the grill. This recipe is my go-to when I want to impress friends at a BBQ or simply indulge in a comforting, hearty dish. Each poblano is generously stuffed with tender, shredded chicken mixed with melty cheddar cheese, creating a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.

What’s even better? This dish is incredibly simple to prepare—perfect for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a delightful mix of smoky BBQ sauce and a touch of sweetness from agave nectar, these cheesy stuffed peppers quickly convert even the most ardent fast food fans into home-cooked meal lovers. Join me as I guide you through this easy, delicious recipe that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Irresistible Flavor: The smoky BBQ sauce melds perfectly with tender chicken and cheesy goodness, creating a taste sensation that will have everyone coming back for more.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, even beginner cooks can achieve perfection.

Crispy Texture: The bacon wrap adds a delightful crispness that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling.

Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or main course, these peppers shine at any gathering.

Time-Saving: With pre-cooked chicken, you’ll whip these up in no time.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a BBQ with friends, everyone will love these mouthwatering peppers!

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers Ingredients

Get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure with these delicious Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers!

For the Peppers

Poblano Peppers – Choose large, firm peppers for the best stuffing experience and flavor.
Center Cut Bacon – This crispy wrap provides a savory layer that complements the cheese and chicken blend.

For the Filling

Shredded Chicken – Use pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie or leftovers, to save time and ensure tenderness.
BBQ Sauce – Adds a smoky sweetness; feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade variety.
Cheddar Cheese – This melty ingredient brings the creamy goodness to the filling; consider Monterey Jack for a twist.

For the Topping

Agave Nectar or Honey – Drizzle this on top after grilling for a touch of sweetness that’s simply irresistible!

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating the ultimate cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers that your loved ones will crave again and again!

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Prepare Ingredients: Soak toothpicks in water for about 10 minutes; this keeps them from burning while grilling.
Prep Peppers: With gloves on, wash each poblano, then cut a slit lengthwise to remove seeds and membranes. This allows the flavors to penetrate.
Make Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese until evenly combined. The filling should be flavorful and creamy.
Stuff Peppers: Generously fill each pepper with the chicken mixture, packing it in tightly to ensure a delicious bite every time.
Wrap with Bacon: Secure each stuffed pepper with a strip of bacon, using toothpicks as needed to hold the bacon in place.
Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Lightly grease the grates, then place the peppers on indirect heat, turning them every 2 minutes until the bacon is crispy, about 20-40 minutes.
Finish and Serve: Once grilled, carefully remove the toothpicks, drizzle with agave nectar, and serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for an added burst of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers?

Elevate your meal with delightful sides that enhance the rich flavors of stuffed peppers!

Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, refreshing side adds a cool contrast to the savory, smoky peppers, providing a delightful texture balance.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, their subtle sweetness beautifully complements the richness of the BBQ chicken and cheese.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Bursting with sweetness and grilled to perfection, corn adds a festive touch and pairs wonderfully with the bold BBQ flavor.
Zesty Green Salad: A light mix of greens with a citrus vinaigrette will brighten your palate and cleanse the taste buds between bites of cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers.
Baked Beans: These hearty beans bring a smoky undertone that resonates with the BBQ theme, turning your meal into a true barbecue feast.

For an added touch, consider serving an ice-cold favorite beverage, such as lemonade or a craft beer, to round out the experience.

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make these tasty peppers your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra heat level that spice lovers will adore. Just adjust to taste!
Vegetarian Delight: Replace the chicken with a hearty medley of black beans and corn for a satisfying plant-based option. Top with crumbled feta for an extra flavor boost.
Low-Carb Swap: Use zucchini boats instead of poblano peppers. Simply hollow them out, fill with the chicken mixture, and proceed as usual for a lighter dish.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or gouda for a smoky, flavorful twist. Each cheese will bring its unique charm.
Herb Infusion: Fold in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the chicken mixture to add a burst of freshness and elevate the flavor profile even further.
Bacon Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey bacon or even prosciutto! Both options will add a delightful savory note while changing the overall taste.
Sauce Swap: Try a different sauce, like buffalo or a sweet chili sauce, for a new flavor dimension. A sweet and spicy BBQ variant will also give it a unique zing!
Wholesome Grains: For a little extra substance, add some cooked quinoa or rice to the filling. This can transform the peppers into a more nourishing meal option.

With these simple variations, you’ll keep the flavors exciting while impressing friends and family with your creative culinary flair!

Expert Tips for Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Prep Wisely: Use gloves when handling poblano peppers to prevent irritation from their oils. It’s a simple step that goes a long way!
Pepper Quality: Choose ripe, firm poblano peppers. Avoid any that are soft or wrinkled, as they may not hold up during grilling.
Filling Consistency: Make sure to pack the chicken mixture firmly into each pepper. This ensures a juicy, flavorful bite with every mouthful of cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers.
Grill Technique: Maintain a steady grill temperature by monitoring heat levels. Too hot can burn the bacon before the chicken warms through.
Bacon Watch: Pay close attention to the bacon as it cooks. If some pieces are cooking too fast, rotate the peppers or adjust their position on the grill for even cooking.

Make Ahead Options

These Bacon Wrapped BBQ Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the filling (shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, and cheddar cheese) and stuff the peppers up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate to keep the flavors fresh. If you’re planning to enjoy leftovers, these fully prepared peppers can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the stuffed peppers as directed—this yields a delicious end result just like you made them fresh! Enjoy the time-saving benefits without compromising on the incredible taste of these cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers.

How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers

Fridge: Store leftover stuffed peppers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in the fridge to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. It’s best to individually wrap them for easy access later.
Reheating: To reheat a frozen pepper, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will keep the bacon crispy.
Cooking Tip: If reheating refrigerated leftovers, simply pop them in the oven or on the grill until warmed to your liking, ensuring that the interior is nice and hot!

Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Poblano Peppers Recipe FAQs

What type of poblano peppers should I use?
For the best stuffing experience, choose large, firm poblano peppers that have a nice shape to hold the filling. Look for peppers that are heavy for their size and have smooth skin—avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots.

How long can I store these stuffed peppers in the fridge?
You can store leftover cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in the refrigerator to retain their delightful flavor and texture.

Can I freeze cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the stuffed peppers individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if the bacon isn’t crispy?
If the bacon isn’t crispy by the time the filling is warmed through, you can finish them under the broiler in your oven for a couple of minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This extra step can help achieve that perfect crunchy goodness!

Are these stuffed peppers suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
You can make these peppers gluten-free by ensuring that your BBQ sauce is free of gluten. Additionally, those with bacon sensitivities can use turkey bacon or completely omit it. Always check labels for any potential allergens when preparing these cheesy chicken stuffed poblano peppers.

How do I ensure the filling stays inside the peppers while grilling?
To minimize spillage while grilling, pack the filling tightly into each pepper and secure the bacon adequately around the pepper. Utilize toothpicks to keep everything in place. Additionally, grilling the peppers over indirect heat allows for a slower cooking process which is beneficial for maintaining the filling.