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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers for Flavor Lovers

These Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 poppers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Filling
  • 2 cups shredded chicken use rotisserie chicken for ease
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese or substitute with pepper jack for extra kick
  • 1/2 cup jalapeños deseed for milder heat or replace with bell peppers
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning homemade can elevate flavor
  • 4 oz cream cheese Greek yogurt can be a lighter option
  • 1 tsp garlic powder adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika omit if unavailable
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
Breading
  • 1 cup flour substitute with gluten-free flour if needed
  • 1 egg or a flax egg for vegan option
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used
Creamy Dip
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice for freshness
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives as a substitute
  • to taste red pepper flakes omit for milder version

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • parchment paper
  • shallow bowls
  • Tongs

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
  2. Scoop out the filling and form it into 1-1.5 inch balls. Place on a tray lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each chilled popper in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Repeat for a double coating if desired.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry poppers in batches for 3-4 minutes each side until golden brown.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes for the dip.
  7. Serve the hot poppers alongside the creamy dip, garnished with parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 2poppersCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 15gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For the best flavor, enjoy the poppers warm and fresh from the fryer. Store leftovers properly to maintain texture.

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