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Flavorful Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Chicken Breast

jalapeno popper stuffed chicken breast - featured image

A quick and easy stuffed chicken breast recipe combining creamy cheddar cheese and spicy jalapenos for a flavorful and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
  • 2 medium jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (leave some seeds for extra heat)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: 1/4 cup crispy cooked bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each breast to about 1/2 inch thickness (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, minced garlic, chopped jalapenos, green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed and creamy. Fold in bacon bits if using (5 minutes).
  3. Lay each pounded chicken breast flat and spoon a generous amount of the cheese and jalapeno filling onto one half. Carefully fold the other half over the filling to create a pocket. Secure edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine (10 minutes).
  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add stuffed chicken breasts and sear each side for about 3 minutes until golden brown, being careful not to pierce the chicken (6 minutes).
  5. Transfer seared chicken breasts to an oven-safe baking dish and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) (15-20 minutes).
  6. Remove chicken from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute (5 minutes).

Notes

Do not rush pounding the chicken breasts to ensure even thickness for even cooking. Use softened cream cheese for a smooth filling. Watch heat carefully when searing to avoid burning. Rest chicken after baking for juicy results. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F. If filling leaks during searing, press edges and add more toothpicks next time.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno popper, stuffed chicken breast, easy dinner, cheesy chicken, spicy chicken, weeknight meal, comfort food