Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Bites Recipe

Introduction

These spicy bacon-wrapped jalapeño chicken bites are a flavorful, bite-sized appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a smoky bacon finish, they deliver a delicious kick with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Toothpicks (for securing)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Step 3: Take each jalapeño half and fill it generously with the cheese mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
4. Step 4: Press a piece of diced chicken breast against the cheese-filled jalapeño. Wrap a half-slice of bacon around the jalapeño and chicken, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Step 5: Arrange the bacon-wrapped jalapeño chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm as an appetizer or game-day snack.

Tips & Variations

• For less heat, leave some seeds in the jalapeños or substitute with mini sweet peppers.
• Use smoked cheddar for an extra smoky flavor that complements the bacon.
• Try adding chopped fresh herbs to the cheese mixture for added freshness.
• If you prefer, grill the bites instead of baking for a charred flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the bacon crispy, or microwave briefly if in a hurry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites a few hours before baking and keep them refrigerated. Just bake them fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Cream cheese provides a creamy texture and tang, but you can substitute with ricotta or mascarpone cheese if preferred, though the flavor and consistency will vary slightly.

Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 67 reviews

These Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Chicken Bites are a flavorful appetizer featuring succulent chicken pieces wrapped around cheese-stuffed jalapeños, all enveloped in crispy bacon. Perfectly seasoned and oven-baked until golden and bubbling, they’re an ideal snack for game days or casual gatherings.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Bacon

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 slices of bacon, cut in half
• Toothpicks (for securing)

Jalapeño and Cheese Filling

• 6 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
3. Stuff Jalapeños: Take each halved and deseeded jalapeño and fill it generously with the cheese mixture. Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each half cleanly and evenly.
4. Wrap with Chicken: Press a piece of the diced chicken breast firmly against each cheese-filled jalapeño half. Then wrap the combination with a half slice of bacon, securing it tightly with a toothpick to hold everything in place. Repeat this process with all the ingredients.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the bacon-wrapped jalapeño chicken bites on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart so they are not overcrowded, which ensures even cooking.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm as a spicy, savory appetizer or game-day snack.

Notes

• Ensure jalapeños are properly seeded if you prefer less heat.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify chicken is cooked safely.
• For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
• Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.

Keywords: spicy appetizer, bacon wrapped, jalapeño poppers, chicken bites, game day snack, cheese stuffed jalapeños