Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers - A Game Day Favorite

Craving a spicy, bold appetizer for game day? Look no further than these buffalo chicken jalapeño poppers! Creamy, spicy chicken is combined with crispy jalapeños for the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack. Here's how to make this super simple, super flavorful finger food at home.

What are Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers?

Buffalo chicken jalapeño poppers take all the flavors of hot wings and stuff them inside crisp, baked jalapeño halves. The filling is a creamy mixture of shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, and ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Once assembled, the stuffed jalapeños are baked until melted and bubbly. Topped with extra shredded cheese, they make the perfect appetizer for game days, parties, or anytime you crave spicy snacks.

Benefits of Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers

Some of the best things about these poppers are:

• Tangy, spicy filling
• Crisp, baked jalapeño shell
• Customizable spice level
• Easy to make ahead
• Portable, pick-up finger food

This crowd-pleasing appetizer takes just minutes to throw together.

Ingredients Needed

To make buffalo chicken poppers, you'll need:

• Jalapeño peppers
• Cooked chicken
• Hot sauce
• Cream cheese
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing
• Shredded cheese

See the detailed recipe for measurements and steps. Feel free to customize with your favorite hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here is an overview of the quick and easy process:

Prep the Jalapeños

Trim stems from jalapeños. Slice lengthwise and scrape out ribs and seeds.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, mix together shredded chicken, hot sauce, cream cheese, dressing, and seasonings.

Fill the Jalapeños

Spoon the spicy chicken mixture into each jalapeño half.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the filled jalapeños.

Bake

Bake in a 425°F oven until jalapeños are tender and filling is bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Devour these spicy poppers right away with a creamy dipping sauce!

Serving Tips and Pairings

To round out the flavors, serve buffalo chicken poppers with:

• Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
• Celery sticks
• Cool creamy dips like hummus, guacamole or salsa
• Other easy finger foods like wings, chips, nuts

The options are endless for fun game day pairings!

Storing and Freezing

To make ahead:

• Assemble unbaked poppers up to 24 hours in advance.
• Refrigerate assembled poppers until ready to bake.
• Freeze baked poppers up to 3 months.
• Reheat frozen poppers at 350°F until hot.

Customizing Your Buffalo Poppers

Personalize these with your favorite flavors:

• Filling: pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, spicy sausage
• Hot sauce: Sriracha, chili garlic sauce, harissa
• Cheese: pepper jack, queso fresco, Oaxaca
• Toppings: scallions, cilantro, crispy onions
• Shells: bell peppers, banana peppers

FAQs

How spicy are buffalo chicken poppers?

Spice level depends on the type and amount of hot sauce used.

What's the best way to cut jalapeños?

Slice lengthwise for more surface area to hold filling. Use gloves to avoid burning hands.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great in the filling.

Do I need to remove jalapeño seeds and ribs?

Yes, removing them reduces some heat and allows for more stuffing.

Can I use pepper jack cheese?

You sure can! Pepper jack will add even more spice.

Spice Up Your Game Day with Buffalo Chicken Poppers

These stuffed jalapeño poppers are guaranteed to be a hit on your next game day spread! With their spicy, tangy filling and crisp shells, they make the perfect pick-up appetizer. Stuff them with your favorite flavors and get ready for the compliments!