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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Crispy baked chicken poppers stuffed with creamy ranch, melted cheddar, and spicy jalapeño for a cheesy, flavorful appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Servings: 24 poppers
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 190

Ingredients
  

Chicken Mixture
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 jalapeños diced, seeds removed for mild heat
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
Coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs panko recommended
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking oil.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to shape the mixture into small balls (about 1.5 inches). Place them on a plate.
  4. Set up three bowls — one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  5. Roll each popper in flour, dip into egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Press breadcrumbs gently so they stick well.
  6. Place the poppers on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil.
  7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10–12 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Let cool for 3–4 minutes, then serve hot with ranch, spicy mayo, or your favorite dip.

Notes

For extra crispiness, chill poppers 10 minutes before coating. Use panko breadcrumbs for crunch.