Introduction

These Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are a deliciously spicy and creamy appetizer that’s perfect for parties or game day. Crispy on the outside with a flavorful, cheesy filling inside, they pair perfectly with a cooling, tangy ranch dip. You’ll love how easy they are to make and irresistible to eat.

A white bowl filled with about eight golden brown, crispy fried cheese balls, each with a rough and crunchy texture. One cheese ball is being dipped into a small round white bowl of creamy white sauce with green herb specks, held by a woman's hand. The cheese ball's crispy coating is coated with the sauce. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. 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, mix the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
Step 2: Form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them in the refrigerator to chill for 15 to 20 minutes, which helps them hold their shape during frying.
Step 3: Prepare your breading station by placing the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan (if using) in a third bowl.
Step 4: Coat each popper by first rolling it in flour, then dipping it in the beaten eggs, and finally coating it evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
Step 5: Heat the neutral oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Remove the poppers from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.
Step 7: Make the creamy dip by combining 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 until ready to serve.
Step 8: Serve the warm poppers alongside the chilled creamy dip for dipping. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For milder poppers, remove all seeds from the jalapeños before adding them to the filling.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispy coating.
Try adding chopped cilantro or green onions to the filling for added freshness.
To make these poppers gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Bake the poppers at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.

Storage

Store any leftover poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. The creamy dip is best served fresh but can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.

How to Serve

The image shows a bowl filled with golden brown fried bites that look crispy on the outside. Each bite has a rough, crunchy texture with some green herbs sprinkled on top. In the center of the bowl, there is a small white bowl with thick creamy sauce that has green and red specks mixed in. One piece is being dipped in the sauce by a woman's hand, showing the sauce coating the rough surface. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and form the balls in advance. Keep them chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bread and fry. Avoid breading too early to prevent sogginess.

What can I use if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can use a mix of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to mimic the flavor. Alternatively, store-bought ranch dressing works well in the filling and dip.