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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers That Wow Every Bite

These Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are a crowd-pleasing appetizer, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4 poppers
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Shallow bowls for breading

Ingredients
  

For the Filling

  • 2 cups Shredded Chicken Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Substitute with pepper jack for an extra kick.
  • 1/2 cup Jalapeños Remove seeds for a milder flavor.
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Homemade or store-bought works well.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese Can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adjust according to personal preference.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper

For the Coating

  • 1 cup Flour Use gluten-free flour if needed.
  • 1 large Egg Beaten well before using.
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Opt for gluten-free if required.

For the Creamy Dip

  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Use more mayonnaise if preferred.
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Homemade versions taste fabulous!
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice Brightens the dip.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley Finely chopped.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  • Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5-inch balls and chill on a tray lined with parchment paper for 15-20 minutes.
  • Set up three shallow bowls for flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs.
  • Roll each chilled popper in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs. Repeat for extra crispiness.
  • Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry poppers in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  • Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, lemon juice, and parsley for the dip. Chill for at least 10 minutes.
  • Serve poppers hot with the creamy dip. Garnish if desired.

Notes

Chill poppers before frying to help retain shape. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 3poppersCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg
Keyword appetizer, Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers, chicken poppers, easy recipe, gluten-free options, party food
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