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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Irresistible Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers Recipe

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are quick to prepare, flavorful bites that are perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 poppers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Poppers
  • 2 cups shredded chicken use rotisserie chicken
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese or pepper jack for spice
  • 1/2 cup jalapeños diced, seeds removed for milder flavor
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning or homemade
  • 4 oz cream cheese or Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • 1 cup flour gluten-free option available
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs gluten-free option available
For the Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • to taste red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Shallow Bowls
  • Slotted Spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  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 and well-blended.
  2. Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls (1-1.5 inches in diameter) and chill for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each chilled popper in flour, dip in egg, and coat in breadcrumbs. Optionally double dip.
  5. Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry poppers in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes for the dipping sauce. Chill for at least 10 minutes.
  7. Serve hot poppers immediately with the dipping sauce. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 2poppersCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 15gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, monitor oil temperature and double-dip for extra crunch! Store leftovers in an airtight container for 4 days, or freeze uncooked shapes for up to 2 months.

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