Indulge in these Cheesy Jalapeño Ranch Chicken Poppers with a Creamy Dip—perfect for gatherings! Try this easy recipe today!
Author:Leila
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:Approximately 20 poppers 1x
Category:Appetizer
Method:Frying
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1–2 jalapeños, diced (seeded for less heat)
2 tbsp ranch seasoning
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
1 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1.5 cups breadcrumbs or panko
Neutral oil, for deep frying
1/2 cup mayo
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tbsp ranch dressing or seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp lemon juice or white vinegar
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Mix until combined.
Form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs (add grated Parmesan if desired).
Coat each ball in flour, dip in eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunchiness, double-coat them.
Heat neutral oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the poppers in batches for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Transfer the fried poppers to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
In a bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, ranch dressing or seasoning, garlic powder, lemon juice (or vinegar), chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.