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Jalapeño Chicken Poppers

Irresistibly Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Poppers You’ll Love

Discover the mouthwatering Jalapeño Chicken Poppers, bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 poppers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Poppers
  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Using rotisserie chicken can speed up prep time.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Consider swapping for pepper jack for extra kick.
  • 2 medium Jalapeños Remove seeds for milder taste; can use bell peppers instead.
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning A homemade blend works wonders too!
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Greek yogurt can serve as a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup Flour Try gluten-free flour if desired.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the coating together nicely.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
For the Creamy Dip
  • ½ cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt is a healthier swap.
  • ½ cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt can fit this role well.
  • ½ cup Ranch Dressing
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Chopped.
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for extra spice.

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • shallow bowls
  • Deep skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • tray
  • Paper towels

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and chill in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each chilled popper in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally roll in breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry poppers in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, lemon juice, and parsley. Chill for at least 10 minutes.
  7. Serve the crispy poppers hot alongside the chilled creamy dip and garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1popperCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 13gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Chill filling to prevent poppers from falling apart while cooking. Ensure oil temperature is 350°F for crispiness. Double-bread for extra crunch. Poppers can be made ahead and frozen.

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