Description
Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers deliver a delightful fusion of flavors, featuring tender ground chicken and smoky roasted jalapeños. This easy recipe is a family favorite, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese, enhanced by a zesty ranch seasoning. Served with a refreshing creamy dip, these poppers are not just delicious—they’re a satisfying treat that tantalizes the palate with every bite. Perfect for any meal or snack time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 fresh jalapeños
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp dill pickle juice
- 1 tsp agar powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
- Roast jalapeños in an oven preheated to 400°F until slightly charred, about 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and finely chopped roasted jalapeños.
- Mix the filling until fully incorporated.
- Spoon generous amounts of the filling into each roasted jalapeño half and press down lightly to compact the filling.
- Dip each filled jalapeño into egg wash if using, then roll in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
- Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet.
Notes
Storage: Store any leftover Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the uncooked poppers; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat the poppers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a quicker option. Avoid microwaving, as this may make them soggy.
Serving: Serve the Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers hot, accompanied by the creamy dip made from sour cream and dill pickle juice. Garnish with additional chopped jalapeños or fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. They make a great appetizer for parties or game day!
Chef’s Tip: For an extra kick, consider mixing in some diced cooked bacon or a splash of hot sauce into the filling. If you like a firmer texture, you can add the optional agar powder to the filling mixture before baking; it helps bind the ingredients together while adding a unique touch!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Backen
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 0
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0