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+ servings

Jalapeno Popper Chicken

A deliciously creamy and spicy chicken dish inspired by the flavors of jalapeno poppers, featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with a cheesy jalapeno filling and topped with crispy breadcrumbs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded to about 1/2 inch thickness
For the Filling
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese sharp or mild, based on preference
  • 1/2 cup jalapenos finely diced, seeds removed for less heat
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
For the Topping
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tbsp butter melted
  • 1 tsp paprika for color and flavor

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
  2. Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to stuff.
Make the Filling
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creates a creamy, flavorful filling.
Stuff the Chicken
  1. Take a portion of the filling (about 1/4 cup) and place it in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the sides over the filling and secure with toothpicks if necessary. This keeps the filling inside during cooking.
Prepare the Topping
  1. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika. This mixture will give a crunchy topping to the chicken.
Bake the Chicken
  1. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of each chicken breast. This adds texture and flavor.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. You can check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken.
  2. Slice and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for added freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 35gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a milder flavor, use fewer jalapenos or remove the seeds. Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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