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Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers Easy Dinner Recipe for the Whole Family

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers with a Creamy Dip

Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers are crispy, golden bites of spicy, cheesy chicken goodness served with a cool, tangy ranch dip. Perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or party favorite, these poppers deliver the ideal combo of crunch, heat, and creamy flavor.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 310
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
  • 1 cup Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1.5 pieces Jalapeños, diced (seeded for less heat)
  • 2 tablespoons Ranch seasoning
  • 0.25 cup Cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika (optional)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 pieces Eggs, beaten
  • 1.5 cups Breadcrumbs or panko
  • 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan (optional)
  • for frying Neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut)
  • 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
  • 0.25 cup Sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon Ranch dressing or seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder (for dip)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon juice or white vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped parsley
  • to taste Red pepper flakes
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mix chicken, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
  2. Step 2: Form the mixture into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
  3. Step 3: Prepare three bowls for breading — one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs (mixed with Parmesan if using).
  4. Step 4: Coat each popper in flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  5. Step 5: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in small batches for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Remove with tongs and drain on a wire rack or paper towel.
  7. Step 7: To make the creamy dip, mix mayo, sour cream, ranch, garlic powder, lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Chill until ready to serve.
  8. Step 8: Serve the poppers hot with the creamy dip on the side. Enjoy!

Notes

For a baked version, arrange the breaded poppers on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Air-fryer instructions: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until golden.