Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. They are made by stuffing jalapeno peppers with cream cheese and sometimes adding other ingredients such as bacon, cheddar cheese, and spices. But what if you took those same flavors and stuffed them inside a chicken breast? That’s exactly what this recipe for Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Chicken does.
This recipe takes the spicy, cheesy flavors of jalapeno poppers and turns them into a satisfying main dish. The chicken is first pounded thin, then stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, diced jalapenos, bacon, and cheddar cheese. It is then breaded and baked until golden and crispy.
➤ You’ll need :
▢2 x 220g/7oz chicken breast, skinless, boneless
▢1/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt
▢1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or ordinary paprika)
▢1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
JALAPEÑO POPPER STUFFING :
▢60g/ 2 oz cream cheese
▢1/2 cup mozzarella cheese , shredded (or other cheese)
▢1/4 cup parmesan , finely shredded
▢2 jalapeños , deseeded and finely diced (Note 1)
▢1/2 tsp garlic powder
▢1/2 tsp black pepper
▢1/2 tsp cooking / kosher salt
➤ Step-by-Step Guide to Making it :
➔ Preheat oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan).
➔ Cut pockets into each chicken breast (Note 2), taking care not to cut all the way through. Cut on the side with the fold in the meat, to keep the smooth side intact.
➔ Stuffing – Microwave the cream cheese for 30 seconds to soften. Mix together with remaining jalapeño popper stuffing ingredients.
➔ Stuff & seal – Stuff inside the chicken pockets, stuffing it all the way in! Then seal each chicken with 2 or 3 toothpicks. If some stuffing is oozing out, that’s a bonus – it’s the best part when it crisps in the pan! Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with the paprika and salt.
➔ Sear – Heat the oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the breast smooth-side down, sear for 2 minutes until golden (it won’t colour more in the oven). Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
➔ Bake 15 min – Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 67°C/155°F.
➔ Rest and serve – Remove the chicken to a plate and rest for 5 minutes, then serve!
This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of jalapeno poppers in a main course. The creamy filling balances out the spicy jalapenos, while the crispy breadcrumb coating adds texture and crunch. This recipe is also easy to customize – try using different cheeses or adding additional spices to the cream cheese mixture to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, jalapeno popper stuffed chicken is sure to be a hit.
This is an easy one and oh so good.
Try it out and don’t forget to RATE and COMMENT below!