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Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers for Spicy Snack Lovers

Enjoy these Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers, a delicious and spicy appetizer perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 poppers
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Poppers
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese or pepper jack for added heat
  • 1/2 cup diced jalapeños remove seeds for milder poppers
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning or homemade blend
  • 4 oz cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch
  • 1 tsp garlic powder substitute fresh garlic for enhanced aroma
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
For Breading and Frying
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour or cornstarch for gluten-free
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko preferred for best texture
  • as needed cups oil high-smoke-point oil for frying
For the Creamy Dip (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or more yogurt
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
  • 2 tbsp parsley fresh or dried
  • to taste red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking sheet
  • deep skillet or fryer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until well-combined and creamy.
  2. Scoop portions of the mixture and roll into balls or oval shapes, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Arrange on a baking sheet and chill for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
  4. Coat each chilled popper in flour, then dip in eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  5. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the breaded poppers in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  6. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes until smooth. Chill the dip.
  7. Serve the warm poppers with the creamy dip on the side, garnished with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1popperCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 7gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Chill the mixture to maintain structure when forming the poppers. Ensure oil is at the correct temperature for frying.

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