Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers with a Creamy Dip

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Crispy on the outside, irresistibly cheesy on the inside—these Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are the ultimate snack or appetizer. Each golden-brown bite is packed with tender chicken, melty cheese, and a kick of jalapeño heat, all coated in a crunchy, flavorful crust. To take it up a notch, they’re served with a rich and creamy ranch-infused dip that perfectly complements the spicy, cheesy goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing game-day snack, a fun party appetizer, or just a delicious treat for yourself, these poppers deliver on all fronts. They’re easy to make, bursting with bold flavors, and absolutely addictive. Once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

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Ingredients for Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers

For the poppers:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the creamy dip:

• ½ cup ranch dressing
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and chopped jalapeños. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and ranch seasoning. Stir until fully incorporated.

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Step 2: Shape the Poppers

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each ball on a lined baking sheet. Once all the poppers are shaped, place them in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes to firm up. This helps them hold their shape during frying.

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Step 3: Coat the Poppers

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Take each chilled popper, roll it in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure an even coating.

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Step 4: Fry Until Crispy

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the poppers into the hot oil in batches, frying for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

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Step 5: Make the Creamy Dip

In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, hot sauce (if using), and chopped chives. Stir until smooth and well combined.

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Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Arrange the hot, crispy poppers on a serving plate and drizzle with some of the creamy dip, or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra chives for a fresh touch. Enjoy these cheesy, spicy bites while they’re warm and gooey!

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Storage Instructions

To store leftover Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven/Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes (or 5-7 minutes in an air fryer) until crispy and heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, though this may soften the crispy exterior.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan with a little oil over medium heat for a few minutes per side.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (approximately 4 poppers):

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: ~15g
• Carbohydrates: ~22g
• Fat: ~15g
• Saturated Fat: ~7g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sodium: ~450mg

Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these poppers instead of frying?

Yes! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the poppers on a lined baking sheet, spray them with cooking oil, and bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled ones?

Absolutely! Fresh jalapeños will add a sharper, spicier kick, while pickled jalapeños provide a tangy balance.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is ideal for its meltability and flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for extra spice.

4. Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bread them ahead, then freeze them. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

5. How do I prevent them from falling apart while frying?

Chilling the poppers before frying helps them hold their shape. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F/175°C) before adding them.

6. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

7. What dips pair well with these poppers?

Besides the ranch dip, try spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or a smoky chipotle sauce.

8. Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh shredded chicken?

Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken is recommended for better texture and flavor. If using canned, drain and shred it well before mixing.

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