Name: Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce; 1/3 cup blue cheese dressing (plus extra for serving); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup cooked chicken (finely diced); 2 green onions (sliced); 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 15 fresh jalapenos

Jump to Recipe Print it

Who doesn’t love a finger food that packs a punch? When I first tasted Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers at a friend’s party, I was instantly hooked. The incredible combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy ignited my taste buds, and I knew I had to recreate them at home. They quickly became a staple for my game day gatherings, family reunions, and even cozy nights in. The best part? They’re as fun to make as they are to eat! I love how the heat from the jalapeños complements the cooling effect of the creamy filling. It’s a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re so versatile! Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a side, or a party snack, these little poppers never fail to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
10 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Hand-held electric mixer, Rimmed Baking Sheet

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special. The creamy filling is infused with the bold flavors of buffalo sauce and blue cheese, bringing together a bold taste that contrasts beautifully with the fresh jalapeños. Imagine the moment when you take a bite, and that creamy mixture flows seamlessly with the crunch of the pepper. It’s a delightful experience that’s sure to wake up your senses!

Why This Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers Hits Different

Perfect for Any Occasion

What I adore about Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers is their versatility. You can whip them up for a casual game night, or they can shine at more formal gatherings. No matter the occasion, they’re always a hit!

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice cooks! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, anyone can create these delightful poppers. Trust me; once you try making them, you’ll be hooked!

Customizable to Your Taste

If you want to add your twist, feel free to experiment! You can change the level of heat by leaving some seeds in the jalapeños or adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce in the filling. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Sharing

One of my favorite aspects of this dish is how perfect they are for sharing. When I serve these up, everyone gathers around, chatting and having a good time, and I love how food brings people together.

Make Ahead Option

If you’re planning a gathering, you can prepare these poppers ahead of time. Just fill the jalapeños and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. It’s a lifesaver for busy days!

Ingredient List for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers

The ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers are a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy textures, each bringing something unique to the dish. The core players are the cream cheese, Buffalo wing sauce, and jalapeños, which work harmoniously to create a flavor explosion. The addition of blue cheese dressing and shredded cheddar cheese adds a creamy richness that balances the heat of the peppers. Here’s what you’ll need:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The base of our filling, it adds creaminess and acts as a neutralizer to the spice.
1/3 cup Buffalo wing sauce: This brings the signature spicy kick that makes these poppers stand out.
1/3 cup blue cheese dressing, plus extra for serving: Adds a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the heat.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle flavor enhancer that rounds out the taste.
1 cup finely diced cooked chicken: The protein that gives these poppers their heartiness.
2 green onions, sliced: Provides a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor.
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a gooey texture and extra cheesiness.
15 fresh jalapeños: The star of the dish, with a spicy bite and a crunchy exterior.

Step by Step Guide for Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers

Making these Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers is not only rewarding but also a lot of fun! From mixing the flavorful filling to stuffing the jalapeños, every step is a chance to get creative. So let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures that the poppers cook evenly and get a nice golden finish.
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth using a hand-held electric mixer. This is essential for a creamy filling that will easily blend with the other ingredients.
Add the Buffalo wing sauce, blue cheese dressing, and garlic powder to the bowl. Continue to mix until the mixture is smooth and well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides to incorporate everything evenly.
Mix in the finely diced cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions. Stir gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated in that delicious filling.
Next, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes. Be cautious, as this is where most of the heat is concentrated. You might want to wear gloves to avoid any irritation!
Stuff each halved jalapeño with the creamy mixture generously. Make sure to pack it in well for a satisfying bite.
Place the stuffed jalapeños on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching to allow even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with extra blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers warm and watch them disappear!

Things Worth Knowing

Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using fewer jalapeños or removing all the seeds and membranes.
Cooking in Batches: If you have a lot of guests, feel free to double the recipe and bake in batches to ensure everyone gets some.
Serving with Dips: These poppers go great with ranch dressing or additional blue cheese dressing, enhancing the taste even more.
Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh jalapeños for the best flavor and texture.
Experimenting: Don’t hesitate to add ingredients like cooked bacon or different cheeses for unique variations.

How to Switch It Up

There are so many fun ways to switch up Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers that keep your taste buds excited! Here are some ideas to enhance this delicious dish:

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked stuffed jalapeños for up to three months. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: These poppers pair excellently with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks for a fresh crunch.
Spice Variations: For a different flavor profile, try using different hot sauces or even a sweet chili sauce.
Cheese Options: Feel free to mix it up with other cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a different texture.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers, the options are endless! Here are some of my favorite ways to present them:

Game Day Treat: These are perfect for a football Sunday, served alongside nachos and wings.
Party Platter: Arrange them on a large platter with assorted dips such as ranch and blue cheese for a colorful presentation.
Appetizer Delight: Serve them as a starter at your next dinner party. They’re sure to be the highlight!
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for BBQs or potlucks, where guests can enjoy them while mingling.
Comfort Food: Enjoy them as a cozy snack while binge-watching your favorite shows, paired with a refreshing drink.
Seasonal Pairing: In colder months, complement with hot soups or chili for a heartwarming meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed jalapeños and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

I recommend using a quality Buffalo wing sauce for the best flavor. Different brands offer various heat levels, so choose one that suits your taste. Just avoid using regular hot sauce, as it doesn’t provide the same creamy texture and flavor balance.

Your Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers are done when the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and are bubbling lightly. The filling should be hot and creamy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary.

These poppers are fantastic with a range of dipping sauces. I love serving them with ranch dressing or extra blue cheese dressing. For a fresh crunch, pair them with side veggies like celery and carrot sticks. They make for a great appetizer spread!

Conclusion

The irresistible combination of creamy filling and spicy jalapeños makes Buffalo Chicken Jalapeno Poppers a standout choice for any gathering. These poppers are not just delicious but also easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. So why not give them a try? You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear, and your guests will surely be asking for the recipe!