Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Jalapenos
These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Jalapenos are a mouthwatering twist on the classic jalapeno popper! Featured on the Rachael Ray Show in October 2009, this recipe delivers all the heat and flavor of traditional poppers, but with a healthier spin. By using tender chicken breasts and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious appetizer that won't break the bank. With a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness, these poppers are ideal for game day, parties, or simply a tasty snack. Enjoy the satisfying crunch of jalapeno paired with creamy blue cheese and spicy buffalo sauce, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
4
Servings
200
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
jalapeno peppers
10 (sliced in half and seeds removed)
hot sauce
1/3 cup (none)
butter
2 tablespoons (none)
boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups (cooked and shredded)
celery rib
1 (finely chopped)
Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup (shredded)
blue cheese
1/2 cup (crumbled, divided)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2
Lengthwise, carefully slice each jalapeno pepper in half. Using a small spoon or knife, remove the seeds and ribs to make room for the filling. Be cautious, as the oils from the jalapenos can irritate your skin and eyes—wear gloves if desired.
3
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce and butter. Whisk continuously until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, Monterey Jack cheese, and half of the blue cheese. Pour the melted hot sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
5
Scoop generous amounts of the chicken mixture into each jalapeno half, shaping the filling into a slight mound for extra flavor.
6
Arrange the stuffed jalapenos in your prepared baking dish, cut side up. Top each pepper with the remaining blue cheese, spreading it evenly across all the poppers.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender, and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving warm. Enjoy your spicy buffalo chicken poppers!
Nutrition Information
11.5g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
16.5g
Protein
1.5g
Fiber
0.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Jalapenos?
They are a healthier twist on the classic jalapeno popper, featuring shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and blue cheese inside fresh jalapeno halves.
How many jalapeno peppers do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 10 jalapeno peppers, which are sliced in half to create 20 poppers.
At what temperature should I preheat the oven?
You should preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
How long do the stuffed jalapenos need to bake?
Bake them for 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly.
Was this recipe featured on television?
Yes, this recipe was featured on the Rachael Ray Show in October 2009.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe recommends using 2 cups of cooked and shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Can I use a different type of cheese besides Monterey Jack?
Yes, while the recipe calls for Monterey Jack, you could substitute it with cheddar or pepper jack for more heat.
How do I prepare the buffalo sauce mixture?
Whisk 1/3 cup of hot sauce and 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over low heat until melted and combined.
Is celery included in the filling?
Yes, one finely chopped celery rib is added to provide a traditional buffalo wing crunch.
Why should I wear gloves when handling the jalapenos?
Jalapeno oils can irritate your skin and eyes, so wearing gloves helps prevent accidental burns while removing seeds.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 11.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 16.5 grams of protein.
Are these jalapeno poppers gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (chicken, vegetables, cheese, butter, hot sauce), they are naturally gluten-free, but always check your hot sauce label.
Can I substitute the blue cheese?
If you do not like blue cheese, you can substitute it with additional Monterey Jack or a mild feta cheese.
How many grams of carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 7.5 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the best way to remove seeds from the peppers?
Use a small spoon or knife to carefully scrape out the seeds and ribs after slicing the peppers in half.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, you should either lightly grease the baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe contains a minimal amount of sugar, approximately 0.5 grams per serving.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can stuff the jalapenos in advance and keep them refrigerated until you are ready to bake them.
What is the fiber content?
There is 1.5 grams of fiber per serving.
What makes this a 'healthier' version of poppers?
By using lean chicken breasts and fresh ingredients instead of heavy breading or deep frying, the calorie and fat content is kept lower.
How do I know when the poppers are finished cooking?
They are done when the jalapenos are soft to the touch and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for the 2 cups of shredded chicken needed.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Common tags include appetizer, spicy, buffalo chicken, game day, and keto-friendly/healthy snack.
Should I serve these hot or cold?
These are best served warm, shortly after being removed from the oven.
Can I use a different pepper if I want less heat?
You can use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos for a completely mild version of the same snack.
Is the blue cheese mixed into the filling?
Half of the blue cheese is mixed into the chicken filling, and the other half is sprinkled on top.
What occasions are these poppers best for?
They are ideal for game days, parties, or as a savory finger food for any gathering.