These Double-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers are a spicy, cheesy, and utterly addictive appetizer or snack. Filled with a creamy buffalo chicken mixture, topped with gooey cheddar cheese, and coated in crispy breadcrumbs, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you’re craving bold flavors. Warning: these poppers are so delicious, they might disappear faster than you can make them!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Spicy & Cheesy: A fiery kick from jalapeños balanced by creamy buffalo chicken filling and melted cheddar cheese.
- Crispy Coating: The breadcrumb crust adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add extra toppings like ranch drizzle for a personal touch.
Ingredients:
- 8 large jalapeños , halved and deseeded 🌶️
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken 🍗
- ¼ cup cream cheese , softened 🧀
- ¼ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (optional, for extra flavor )
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce 🔥
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
- 1 cup flour (for coating )
- 2 eggs , beaten 🥚
- 1½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil ) 🫒
- Optional: Chopped parsley or ranch drizzle for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeños 🌶️
- Wash and slice the jalapeños in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes to reduce heat (wear gloves if sensitive to spice! ).
- Set the prepared jalapeño halves aside on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Filling 🥄
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken , cream cheese , buffalo sauce , and ranch or blue cheese dressing (if using ). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture and mix until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Stuff the Jalapeños 🧀
- Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture into each jalapeño half, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Top each stuffed jalapeño with a sprinkle of the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese .
Step 4: Coat the Poppers 🥚
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Seasoned breadcrumbs
- Roll each stuffed jalapeño first in flour , shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs , ensuring full coverage.
- Finally, coat thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs , pressing gently to adhere.
Step 5: Fry the Poppers 🍳
- Heat about 1–2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat to 350°F (175°C) .
- Carefully place a few jalapeño poppers into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 2–3 minutes , turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve 🍴
- Garnish with chopped parsley for color, if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of ranch dressing or a drizzle of ranch sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success:
- Adjust Spice Level: Use milder peppers like poblanos or remove all seeds/membranes from jalapeños for less heat.
- Bake Option: For a healthier alternative, bake the poppers at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes , or until golden and bubbly. Lightly spray with cooking oil for crispiness.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days . Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness.
- Freeze Option: Freeze unbaked poppers on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutritional Information (per popper, makes 16):
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~9g
Enjoy these Double-Stuffed Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack that’s packed with bold, spicy, and cheesy flavors. Their crispy exterior, creamy filling, and fiery kick make them impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, these poppers are sure to be a hit!