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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers: Crunchy Bliss Awaits

These Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are a delightful snack combining crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and jalapeños, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Chilling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 53 minutes
Servings: 6 poppers
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Poppers
  • 2 cups shredded chicken
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese can substitute with pepper jack
  • 2 medium jalapeños diced, seeds removed for less heat
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • to taste salt & pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs for coating
  • for frying oil high-smoke point oil like canola
For the Creamy Dip
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons parsley chopped, for garnish
  • to taste red pepper flakes optional for extra kick

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • skillet
  • parchment-lined tray
  • shallow bowls

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well-blended.
  2. Take a portion of the filling mixture and gently roll it into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each ball on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each popper in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  5. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning and chill the dip.
  7. Serve the hot poppers with the chilled creamy dip and garnish with parsley or extra cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1popperCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Chilling the poppers helps maintain their shape during cooking. Fry in batches for even cooking.

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