5 Delicious Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Poppers Recipes
Indulge in a unique culinary delight with Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Poppers. This recipe combines the spicy kick of jalapeños, the savory goodness of chicken, and the rich, smoky flavor of bacon into one irresistible bite. Here’s how you can create these scrumptious appetizers at home.
Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Poppers
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 10-12 jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 10-12 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Chicken
Cube the chicken into approximately 1-inch pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
2. Jalapeño Prep
Cut jalapeños in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes for a milder popper, or leave some seeds for extra heat.
3. Mixing the Filling
In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and minced garlic until well mixed.
4. Assembling the Poppers
Stuff each jalapeño half with the cheese mixture. Place a piece of seasoned chicken on top of the filling. Wrap each stuffed jalapeño with a half slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if necessary.
5. Cooking
- Oven Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until bacon is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill the poppers, turning frequently, until the bacon is crispy, about 20 minutes.
🔥 Note: Always pre-cook the bacon slightly for faster and more even cooking if grilling or baking, especially if you prefer the bacon to be crisper.
Variations
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a small amount of honey or brown sugar before wrapping with bacon to balance the heat of the jalapeños.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the cream cheese for a fresh twist.
- Double the Cheese: Replace half of the cream cheese with shredded pepper jack cheese for an extra cheesy popper.
- Buffalo Poppers: Toss the chicken pieces in buffalo sauce before placing them on jalapeños for a spicy, tangy kick.
In conclusion, Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Poppers are a versatile dish that can cater to various taste preferences. Whether you crave heat, sweetness, or a burst of flavor, these poppers can be customized to your liking. They are perfect for parties, game days, or a unique snack. This recipe not only provides a flavorful treat but also showcases the delicious synergy between bacon, chicken, and jalapeños, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
Can I make these poppers ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare these poppers in advance. Assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps the flavors to meld together.
What are good side dishes to serve with these poppers?
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These poppers pair well with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled corn on the cob. For a lighter option, consider a fresh salad or guacamole dip.
How can I make these less spicy?
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To reduce the heat, remove all the seeds and ribs from the jalapeños. Alternatively, use mini bell peppers for a completely mild version.