Description
Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Bites
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 small jalapeño (finely chopped, seeds removed for less heat)
1 egg
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Dipping sauce of choice (e.g., marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo)
Directions
Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, jalapeño, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
Form the bites: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a tray.
Cook the bites: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken bites in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
Serve: Transfer to a plate, garnish with fresh basil (optional), and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Servings: 4 (about 12 bites)
Calories: ~200 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Bites every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: shred the cheese, finely chop the jalapeño (removing seeds and ribs to control heat), and beat the egg lightly. In your large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, cheddar, breadcrumbs, jalapeño, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix just until combined; overmixing can make the bites tough. With slightly damp hands, roll the mixture into uniform 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined tray. Preheat your skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Cook the bites in batches to avoid overcrowding, which steams them instead of browning. Turn them gently every few minutes until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 10-12 minutes total.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. For a party, serve them warm on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces like cool ranch, zesty marinara, spicy sriracha mayo, or a creamy avocado crema. As a main course, pair them with a fresh side salad, cilantro-lime rice, or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, thread them onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for easy serving.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Bites: 1) Mix ground chicken, cheese, breadcrumbs, jalapeño, egg, and seasonings. 2) Form into 1-inch balls. 3) Pan-fry in batches in olive oil over medium heat for 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through. 4) Serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying? Yes. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I make these gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with an equal amount of gluten-free panko, almond flour, or crushed pork rinds.
Can I prepare the mixture ahead of time? Absolutely. You can cover and refrigerate the uncooked mixture for up to 24 hours before forming and cooking. This can enhance the flavors.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
What’s the best way to control the spice level? For mild bites, remove all jalapeño seeds and white ribs. For more heat, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the meat: This compacts the proteins, leading to dense, tough bites. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Crowding the pan: Adding too many bites at once lowers the pan temperature, causing them to steam and become soggy instead of searing.
- Using cheese that’s too finely shredded: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture. Shredding a block of cheddar yourself creates a better, gooier result.
- Not letting the bites rest: Let them rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from falling apart when bitten.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfectly balancing spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors in one easy-to-make package. With a simple ingredient list and flexible cooking methods, they are a reliable recipe for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve deliciously golden, juicy bites every time. Experiment with different cheeses and dipping sauces to make them your own. Enjoy this irresistible snack that’s sure to become a regular favorite.