Description

Nothing beats the perfect combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and bold buffalo chicken flavors that dance together in every bite of these Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Jalapeños. This recipe transforms ordinary jalapeño poppers into an extraordinary appetizer that’s guaranteed to be the star of your next game day party, family gathering, or backyard barbecue. The rich, tangy buffalo chicken filling paired with the natural heat of fresh jalapeños creates an irresistible flavor explosion that will have your guests asking for the recipe.

Ingredients

For the Buffalo Chicken Filling:

    2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
    8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
    1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
    1/4 cup ranch dressing
    1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
    2 green onions, finely chopped
    1 teaspoon garlic powder
    1/2 teaspoon onion powder
    Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Jalapeños:

    12 large fresh jalapeño peppers
    12 slices bacon, cut in half (24 pieces total)
    1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
    2 tablespoons butter, melted
    Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Put on disposable gloves to protect your hands from jalapeño oils, which can cause burning sensations on skin and eyes.
Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeños

Wash and dry the jalapeños thoroughly. Using a sharp knife, cut each jalapeño in half lengthwise from stem to tip. With a small spoon or melon baller, carefully remove all seeds and white membranes from each jalapeño half. This step is crucial for controlling the heat level – remove more membrane for milder poppers, leave some for extra spice.
Step 3: Create the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Mix until completely smooth and well combined. Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated and the mixture holds together well.
Step 4: Stuff the Jalapeños

Using a small spoon, generously fill each jalapeño half with the buffalo chicken mixture, mounding it slightly above the pepper. The filling should be packed firmly but not overflowing. Arrange the stuffed jalapeños on your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Add the Bacon Wrapping

Take each half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each stuffed jalapeño, starting from one end and spiraling to the other. The bacon should cover most of the filling and jalapeño. Tuck the ends of the bacon underneath each pepper to secure them in place.
Step 6: Create the Crispy Topping

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture lightly over the bacon-wrapped jalapeños for an extra crispy texture.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and golden brown and the jalapeños are tender. The filling should be hot and bubbly, and the peppers should be easily pierced with a fork.
Step 8: Final Touches and Serving

Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional buffalo sauce if desired and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture experience.