Buffalo Wing Poppers are fun little bites that pack a spicy punch! They’re made with juicy chicken and a kick of hot sauce, all wrapped up in crispy breading. Perfect for snacking!
These tasty treats are a hit at any party. Just be careful, they disappear faster than you can say “more, please!” I love serving them with a side of cool ranch for dipping! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños provide the perfect kick for these poppers. If you prefer less heat, use mini sweet peppers or even banana peppers for a milder alternative.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead. They will change the flavor a bit but still taste great!
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for ease, but any cooked chicken works. You can substitute with tofu or beans for a vegetarian option.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Feel free to adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it! For a milder option, use barbecue sauce or a homemade sauce with less hot sauce.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a nice sharp flavor. You could switch it up with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an added kick!
How Do I Make Sure the Jalapeños Aren’t Too Spicy?
When preparing your jalapeños, removing the seeds and membranes reduces the heat. Here’s how to do that:
- Slice the peppers in half lengthwise.
- Use a small spoon to scoop out the seeds and membranes gently.
- If you’re still concerned about spiciness, you can soak the peppers in cold water for about 30 minutes before stuffing.
Each jalapeño’s heat can vary, so taste testing might be a good idea if you’re unsure!
What’s the Best Way to Stuff and Bake My Poppers?
Stuffing your jalapeños properly is key to getting a good flavor balance. Here’s my approach:
- Mix your filling until smooth before stuffing to ensure every bite is delicious.
- Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each half generously.
- Arrange them on a lined baking sheet to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Keep an eye on them in the oven—the goal is perfectly bubbly and golden tops without burning!
How to Make Buffalo Wing Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 10 fresh jalapeño peppers
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, plan for about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, and soon you’ll have delicious Buffalo Wing Poppers to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough to cook your poppers perfectly.
2. Prepare the Jalapeños:
Carefully slice each jalapeño pepper in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or small knife to remove the seeds and membranes from the inside if you’d like to reduce their heat a bit. Set them aside for now.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Stuff the Jalapeños:
Grab the halved jalapeños and fill each one generously with the cream cheese mixture using a spoon. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
5. Bake the Poppers:
Put your baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the jalapeños are tender and the cheese mixture is nice and bubbly with a golden brown color.
6. Cool and Garnish:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the poppers cool for a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh finishing touch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in while they’re warm! These Buffalo Wing Poppers make a perfect snack or appetizer. Enjoy your creation!
Can I Use Other Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While jalapeños are traditional, you can use poblano or serrano peppers for a different flavor and heat level. Just remember that poblanos are milder than jalapeños, while serranos are spicier, so adjust the rest of your ingredients accordingly to match your taste preferences!
What’s a Good Substitute for Buffalo Wing Sauce?
If you want to avoid buffalo sauce or need a milder option, you can substitute it with BBQ sauce or a homemade hot sauce by mixing vinegar with chili powder. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change a bit, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through, or you can microwave them for a quicker option—just be careful not to overdo it to avoid sogginess!
