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If you're in search of a dish that perfectly balances flavors, texture, and visual appeal, look no further than Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken. This delightful recipe combines the heat of spicy jalapeños with the creamy richness of cheese, all enveloped within juicy, tender chicken breasts. The result is a mouthwatering dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also impresses guests at dinner parties or satisfies family cravings on busy weeknights.

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken – A Cheesy, Spicy Delight!

Discover a flavorful twist on dinner with this Crispy Jalapeño Popper Chicken recipe. Combining the heat of jalapeños with creamy cheese stuffed in tender chicken breasts, this dish promises to please any palate. Ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests, it features a crunchy panko coating that elevates each bite. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy impressing everyone at your table!
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Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup jalapeños, finely diced (fresh or pickled, adjust to spice preference)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

    Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

      Prepare Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch thick). This step ensures even cooking and easier stuffing.

        Stuff Chicken: Take a generous amount of the cheese and jalapeño mixture and place it in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken over to encase the filling. You may secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine if needed.

          Breading Station: Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.

            Coat Chicken: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

              Bake: Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the top for extra crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the coating is golden brown.

                Rest and Serve: Once baked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the cheese filling stay intact. Serve warm with a side of ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4 servings