Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken

Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken is a perfect choice. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy filling inspired by the popular appetizer: jalapeño poppers. The result is a delightful dish that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table.

Why Make This Recipe

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken is not just another chicken dish. It offers a burst of flavor thanks to the spicy jalapeños, creamy cheeses, and smoky paprika. The textures and tastes all come together for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and will impress your friends and family.

How to Make Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken

Ingredients:

2 x 220g/7oz chicken breast, (skinless, boneless)
1/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (or ordinary paprika)
1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
60g/2 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (or other cheese)
1/4 cup parmesan, finely shredded
2 jalapeños, deseeded and finely diced
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt

Directions:

Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan).
Cut pockets: Take each chicken breast and cut pockets into them. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to keep one side intact.
Prepare stuffing: Microwave the cream cheese for 30 seconds to soften it. Then, mix it with the remaining stuffing ingredients (jalapeños, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt).
Stuff and seal: Stuff the chicken pockets with the cream cheese mixture. Use 2 or 3 toothpicks to seal the openings. If some filling is oozing out, don’t worry—that’s where the best flavors come from when it crisps up!
Sear: Heat the olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, smooth-side down, and sear for about 2 minutes until golden. Flip and sear the other side for another 2 minutes.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 67°C/155°F.
Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or some sautéed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over rice or with mashed potatoes to soak up any delicious juices.

How to Store Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through or microwave it for a quick option.

Tips to Make Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken

For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for a minute or two after baking.
Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeños used based on your spice preference.
Ensure the chicken is patted dry before searing to get that perfect golden crust.

Variation

You can switch up the cheeses for different flavors. Cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice twist, or you can even try adding cooked bacon bits for more richness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the recipe.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 67°C/155°F.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Enjoy your tasty and easy-to-make Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken!