Introduction

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are crispy, flavorful bites perfect for game day or a fun appetizer. Filled with tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and a hint of jalapeño heat, these poppers come with a creamy, tangy dip that complements every bite.

The image shows a white bowl filled with golden-brown fried chicken nuggets. In the center of the bowl is a small white ramekin with a creamy white sauce that has green herbs mixed in. Several chicken nuggets are dipped in the sauce, showing the creamy texture on the crispy surface. The nuggets have a crunchy texture with some rough, uneven edges and golden spots. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is seen holding one nugget dipped in the sauce. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1–2 jalapeños, diced (seeded for less heat)
2 tbsp ranch seasoning
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1.5 cups breadcrumbs or panko
1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut), for deep frying
1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp ranch dressing or seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp lemon juice or white vinegar
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until thoroughly mixed.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them in the refrigerator to chill for 15–20 minutes, which helps them hold their shape during frying.
Step 3: Prepare a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan if using.
Step 4: Coat each chicken ball in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.
Step 5: Heat the neutral oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Remove the poppers with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil and cool slightly.
Step 7: To prepare the dip, mix together mayo, sour cream, ranch dressing or seasoning, garlic powder, lemon juice or vinegar, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill before serving.
Step 8: Serve the hot poppers alongside the creamy dip for a delicious appetizer or snack.

Tips & Variations

For milder poppers, remove the seeds from jalapeños or substitute with milder peppers like banana peppers.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicier kick.
Try baking poppers at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.

Storage

Store leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispiness. The dip can be refrigerated for up to 5 days; stir well before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of several golden-brown fried pieces of food, round and crispy with a crunchy texture, placed inside a white bowl with a small round container of creamy white sauce sprinkled with green herbs at the center. One piece is being dipped into the sauce by a woman's hand, showing the creamy sauce coating the piece. The background has a white marbled texture that highlights the warm colors of the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños?

Fresh jalapeños provide a crisp texture and fresh heat, while pickled jalapeños add tanginess. Both work well depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bread the poppers in advance, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store in a freezer-safe bag and fry or bake directly from frozen when ready to serve.