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Jalapeno Popper Chicken

This Jalapeno Popper Chicken combines savory chicken with a rich, cheesy filling that packs a spicy kick, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Chicken
  • 4 pieces chicken breasts, trimmed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing the chicken
Stuffing
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 3 pieces jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
  3. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create a pocket, being careful not to cut through.
  4. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the spice mixture generously.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
  6. Sear the chicken on both sides for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown, then remove from pan and set aside.
Stuffing
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded white cheddar, chopped bacon, and chopped jalapeños.
  2. Mix until fully combined.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Once the chicken has cooled, stuff the pockets with the cheese and bacon mixture.
  2. Secure openings with toothpicks if needed.
  3. Bake stuffed chicken breasts for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Garnish with green onions and additional bacon crumbles if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, leave some jalapeño seeds in the filling. You can use different cheeses, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for varied flavors. Avoid overcooking the chicken during searing, as it will continue to cook in the oven.