Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat—Fully Involved Jalapeño Popper Chicken! This mouthwatering recipe combines the creamy richness of cheese with the zesty kick of jalapeños, all wrapped up in juicy chicken breasts. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful feast that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 jalapeños, diced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a ceramic baking dish.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part, being careful not to cut completely through. This creates a butterfly or stuffable cavity.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the inside and outside of each chicken breast with salt and pepper. Generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the cream cheese and jalapeño mixture, ensuring it is packed firmly but not overflowing.
- Secure the chicken breast openings with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- In a shallow dish, spread the breadcrumbs. Gently coat each stuffed chicken breast in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure even coverage.
- Drizzle olive oil over the breaded chicken breasts to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Place the prepared chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped jalapeños or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the juiciest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños based on your spice tolerance. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add other ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, such as cooked bacon bits or spices like garlic powder and smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor profile.
- Keep It Moist: To ensure your chicken stays moist, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent.
- Serve with Style: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or serve alongside a fresh salad or dipping sauce for an extra touch of flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a couple of hours before baking. This makes for a quick and easy dinner option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 160mg
