Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the fiery kick of jalapeños with the irresistible flavor of buffalo chicken! These mouth-watering poppers are about to become the star of your next game day, party, or casual get-together. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy jalapeño packed with creamy, spicy buffalo chicken that'll make your guests go wild - this recipe is your ticket to appetizer superstardom!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 poppers
Ingredients
- 12 jalapeno peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your poppers cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
- Prepare the jalapeno peppers by cutting them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully remove the seeds and membranes. This will help reduce the heat level of the peppers, making them more enjoyable for those who may be sensitive to spice.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Take each jalapeno half and fill it generously with the buffalo chicken mixture. Use a spoon or a small spatula to pack the filling in, ensuring it is heaped slightly above the edges of the jalapeno.
- Place the filled jalapeno poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Make sure to space them out evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Once all the poppers are filled and arranged on the baking sheet, place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- While the poppers are baking, chop the green onions and set them aside for garnish.
- After 20 minutes, remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help prevent burns and allow the flavors to settle.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the poppers for a fresh touch and added flavor.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers warm, and enjoy them as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Tips
- Choose fresh, firm jalapeños for the best texture and flavor. Look for peppers that are bright green and free from blemishes.
- Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to protect your hands from the spicy oils. Pro tip: If you want to reduce the heat, remove all seeds and membranes carefully.
- For extra crispy poppers, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking to get a golden, slightly charred top.
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy filling preparation.
- If you're sensitive to spice, you can substitute mild hot sauce or reduce the amount of buffalo sauce.
- These poppers are best served immediately while the cheese is still melty and the jalapeños are warm.
- For a make-ahead option, you can prepare the poppers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Serve with a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side to balance the heat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 25mg
