Creamy Jalapeno Popper Chicken

This jalapeno popper chicken is the ultimate comfort food. With crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a cheesy jalapeno cream sauce, it’s both simple and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time!

Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Recipe

• Easy to make in one pan with minimal cleanup.
• Irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon flavor.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Popper Chicken

• Bacon: Adds smoky, salty flavor that balances the creamy sauce. Pancetta can be used instead.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are sliced in half for quicker cooking. Chicken thighs would also work.
• Spices: Garlic powder and paprika are the simple spices that enhance the flavor of this chicken dish. Smoked paprika can be used for extra depth.
• Butter: Helps sauté the jalapenos and build the creamy sauce.
• Fresh Jalapenos: Provide a mild to medium heat with great flavor. For less spice, use poblano peppers or canned green chilies.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth. Extra garlic powder can be used if needed.
• Flour: Thickens the sauce. Stick with all-purpose flour for this jalapeno popper chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the sauce. Vegetable broth also works.
• Cream Cheese: Makes the sauce rich and creamy. Stick with full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds bold cheesy flavor. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack are also great choices.
• Green Onions: Provide a fresh finish and bright flavor. Chives are a great substitute.

How to Make Jalapeno Popper Chicken

Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy, then set aside. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease.

Prepare the chicken: Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook in bacon grease until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan.

Make the sauce base: Melt butter in the same pan and sauté diced jalapenos for a few minutes. Add garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking until fragrant. Stir in flour and cook briefly.

Add liquids and cheese: Slowly whisk in chicken broth. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar until melted into a smooth sauce. Season to taste.

Combine everything: Nestle the chicken into the sauce and let it warm through. Garnish with green onion and crumbled bacon before serving.

Tips for Making Jalapeno Popper Chicken

• Slice chicken breasts thinly for faster cooking and more surface area for flavor.
• Use gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid lingering heat on your hands.
• If you like extra heat, keep some seeds in the jalapenos or add a pinch of cayenne.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.

Make-Ahead Instructions

• This jalapeno popper chicken is a delicious make-ahead meal that can be prepped days in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to eat!
• Store the chicken and sauce separately or together and then reheat gently.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Jalapeno Popper Chicken

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
• Add a splash of cream, broth, or milk to loosen the sauce.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• creamy mashed potatoes
• crispy garlic bread
• simple house salad
• air fryer asparagus
• air fryer green beans

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