Jalapeno popper stuffed chicken Recipe

Jalapeño Popper Stuffed Chicken is a delicious and indulgent dish where chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño filling, inspired by classic jalapeño poppers. The combination of spicy jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and bacon makes for a rich, flavorful stuffing, while the chicken is often baked or pan-fried to create a juicy, tender result. This dish is perfect for those who love a bit of heat and creamy textures in their meals.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and diced
• 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing or baking)
• Toothpicks (to secure the chicken, if needed)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and crumbled bacon. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake the chicken.
• Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal pocket into each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold the filling.
• Season the outside of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Stuff the Chicken:

• Spoon the jalapeño popper filling into each chicken breast, filling the pockets evenly. Secure the open sides with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside during cooking.

4. Cook the Chicken:

• Baking Method: Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
• Pan-Frying Method: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and finish cooking in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes.

5. Serve:

• Remove the toothpicks before serving. Serve the jalapeño popper stuffed chicken with a side of vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes.

This dish combines the richness of the jalapeño popper filling with the tenderness of chicken, making for a flavorful and slightly spicy meal that’s sure to impress!