If there’s one appetizer I make on repeat for game days, BBQs, and casual get-togethers, it’s these Ooey Gooey Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers. They’re spicy, cheesy, creamy, and pack just enough heat with that classic buffalo kick everyone loves. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to put together and always the first thing to vanish from the table.
I love how these poppers are the perfect combination of flavors — smoky jalapeños, tangy buffalo sauce, rich cream cheese, and gooey melted cheese. Every bite has that satisfying crunch and spicy, creamy goodness that keeps you reaching for another.
Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers
- Spicy, creamy, cheesy — everything you want in a party snack
- Quick to make and easy to bake
- Great for game days, gatherings, or even a fun dinner appetizer
- Customizable with extra toppings or different sauces
- Keto-friendly if you skip the breadcrumbs
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 fresh jalapeños, halved and seeded
- 1½ cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (I use Frank’s RedHot for the best flavor)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but amazing)
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley, for garnish
How I Make Ooey Gooey Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers
1. Prep the Jalapeños
I slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and membranes (be careful — this is where the heat lives!). I always wear gloves for this step to avoid any accidental spice burns.
2. Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I stir in crumbled blue cheese for that bold, tangy bite.
3. Fill the Jalapeños
Using a spoon, I stuff each jalapeño half generously with the buffalo chicken mixture, pressing it down to make sure every jalapeño is loaded up.
4. Bake
I place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve
Right out of the oven, I sprinkle the poppers with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately — they won’t last long!
My Tips for the Perfect Poppers
- Want them milder? Choose larger jalapeños and remove all seeds and membranes.
- Want extra crunch? Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the top before baking.
- No blue cheese fan? Swap it for more cheddar or use Monterey Jack.
- Make ahead: Assemble the poppers, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes for an extra crispy finish.
What to Serve with These Poppers
- Cool ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Celery and carrot sticks on the side
- Cold beer or a refreshing cocktail to balance the spice
- A big bowl of tortilla chips and guac for the ultimate party spread
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these poppers less spicy?
A: Absolutely. Remove all seeds and membranes, and use mild buffalo sauce. You can also substitute mini sweet peppers for a heat-free version.
Q: Can these be frozen?
A: Yes! Freeze the filled, unbaked poppers on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F for about 25 minutes.
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: While fresh or rotisserie chicken has the best flavor, canned chicken works in a pinch — just be sure to drain it well.
Q: Can I make them vegetarian?
A: You can swap chicken for chickpeas or cauliflower rice mixed with buffalo sauce and cheese for a vegetarian version.
The Best Spicy, Cheesy Appetizer You’ll Ever Make
These Ooey Gooey Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers are everything I love in an appetizer — cheesy, spicy, creamy, and totally addicting. They’re easy to make, disappear in minutes, and always have people asking for the recipe. Whether you’re hosting game day, a holiday gathering, or just craving a spicy snack, this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
If you try them, let me know how you made them your own! I’ve seen everything from crispy bacon toppings to drizzles of ranch — and it all sounds amazing.
Ooey Gooey Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Poppers: The Ultimate Party Bite
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 12 jalapeño peppers, halved and seeded
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare jalapeño peppers by slicing them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds.
- Fill each jalapeño half with the buffalo chicken mixture.
- Place the filled jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the jalapeños are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
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