Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken (Print-Friendly Version)
Spicy cheesy jalapeño ranch chicken poppers make the perfect game day snack or appetizer. Tangy creamy dip amplifies the savory flavors. One to keep handy.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ For the Chicken Poppers
01 -
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
02 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
03 -
1 to 2 jalapeños, diced and seeded
04 -
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
05 -
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
06 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
08 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
09 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
10 -
2 large eggs, beaten
11 -
5 cups breadcrumbs or panko
12 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
13 -
Neutral oil such as canola, vegetable, or peanut, for deep frying
→ For the Creamy Dip
14 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
15 -
1/4 cup sour cream
16 -
1 tablespoon ranch dressing or ranch seasoning
17 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
18 -
1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar
19 -
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
20 -
Red pepper flakes, to taste
21 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the shredded chicken, sharp cheddar, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until homogenous.
02 -
With damp hands, shape the chicken mixture into bite-sized balls and arrange on a tray. Place in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to firm.
03 -
Set up three separate shallow bowls: one with flour, a second with beaten eggs, and a third filled with breadcrumbs or panko mixed with Parmesan if desired.
04 -
Roll each chilled ball first in flour, then dip in egg, coating evenly, and finally roll in breadcrumbs. For a thicker crust, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps.
05 -
In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F. Fry the breaded poppers in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and golden. Do not overcrowd.
06 -
Using a slotted spoon, transfer poppers to a wire rack or paper towels to drain and cool slightly before serving.
07 -
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch, garlic powder, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
08 -
Arrange warm chicken poppers on a platter alongside the creamy dip for dipping.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Seed jalapeños for a milder flavor; leave some seeds in for extra heat. Allow the poppers to chill before breading for best structural integrity during frying.