What is Jalapeño Popper Chicken?

Jalapeño Popper Chicken is a delicious dish where tender chicken breasts are stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and chopped jalapeños, then baked or grilled until juicy and flavorful. Inspired by the classic jalapeño popper appetizer, it transforms those bold, creamy flavors into a hearty main course that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining.

How spicy is Jalapeño Popper Chicken?

The spiciness of Jalapeño Popper Chicken depends mainly on the jalapeños you use. Fresh jalapeños usually carry a medium heat, but removing the seeds and membranes significantly reduces their spiciness. You can also adjust the heat level by using fewer jalapeños or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it hotter. Either way, the cream cheese filling balances the spice beautifully.

What do you stuff Jalapeño Popper Chicken with?

The classic stuffing for Jalapeño Popper Chicken features a simple but flavor-packed mixture: Cream cheese Shredded cheddar cheese Diced jalapeños Garlic powder Onion powder Some variations include adding crispy bacon bits, green onions, or even swapping out cheddar for a different cheese like pepper jack for extra kick.

Can I make Jalapeño Popper Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Jalapeño Popper Chicken is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble the stuffed chicken breasts a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just bake or grill as directed. It's an easy way to save time without sacrificing flavor or texture. If you’re a meal prep fan, you’ll also love our guide on how to Make Perfect Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe — it’s another prep-ahead winner!

How do you keep Jalapeño Popper Chicken moist?

Keeping Jalapeño Popper Chicken moist is all about technique. Brining the chicken beforehand, covering it during the initial baking period, and using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking are key steps. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.

Is Jalapeño Popper Chicken keto-friendly?

Yes! Jalapeño Popper Chicken is naturally keto-friendly when you skip breadcrumbs or any sugary coatings. Packed with healthy fats from the cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon, it fits beautifully into a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle. The keto casserole version of this dish is especially popular among those looking to keep their carbs low while enjoying a flavor explosion.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken: Best 9-Step Recipe You Must Try

Name: Jalapeño Popper Chicken – Creamy, Spicy, and Perfect for Dinner!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts; ¾ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1-2 tablespoons olive oil; 3-4 jalapeños, seeded and diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil; 2 tablespoons flour; 1 ½ cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon hot sauce; ½ chicken bouillon cube; ¾ teaspoon oregano; ¾ teaspoon mustard powder; ¾ teaspoon parsley; ¾ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 4 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed; ½ cup sour cream; ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese; Sliced green onions; Crispy fried onions (optional, for texture and flavor)

Description

This Jalapeño Popper Chicken recipe is the ultimate dinner idea! Juicy chicken smothered in a creamy, cheesy jalapeño sauce with crispy bacon and green onions. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
¾ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1–2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce:

3–4 jalapeños, seeded and diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 tablespoons flour
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon hot sauce
½ chicken bouillon cube
¾ teaspoon oregano
¾ teaspoon mustard powder
¾ teaspoon parsley
¾ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
4 oz. cream cheese, softened and cubed
½ cup sour cream
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Garnish:

Sliced green onions
Crispy fried onions (optional, for texture and flavor)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise, tenderize to ½-inch thickness, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add butter or olive oil. Sauté diced jalapeños and garlic for 3 minutes.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring continuously. Add hot sauce, bouillon cube, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Add cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in cheddar cheese until fully combined.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and let it heat through for 3 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and crispy fried onions if desired. Serve immediately with rice, roasted vegetables, or tortilla chips for dipping.

Notes

Spice Level: For a milder sauce, remove the jalapeño seeds and membranes.
Cheese Tip: Always shred cheese from a block for the best melting and flavor.
Serving Ideas: Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, tortilla chips, or cornbread.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain sauce texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Jalapeño Popper Chicken, Creamy Chicken Dinner, Spicy Chicken Recipe, Easy Skillet Chicken