Bacon Jalapeno Pepper Chicken Bites are a delicious and spicy appetizer that is perfect for grilling season. These bite-sized chicken pieces are wrapped in bacon and stuffed with a creamy jalapeno pepper filling, creating a flavorful and indulgent treat. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a new appetizer to try, these Bacon Jalapeno Pepper Chicken Bites are sure to be a hit with your friends and family.
Ingredients for Bacon Jalapeno Pepper Chicken Bites:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 slices bacon
- 3-4 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks, for securing the bacon
How to Make Bacon Jalapeno Pepper Chicken Bites:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1 inch in size. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the diced jalapeno peppers, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
3. Assemble the Bites:
- Take a piece of chicken and flatten it slightly. Place a small spoonful of the jalapeno cream cheese mixture in the center of the chicken.
- Wrap a slice of bacon around the chicken, securing it with a toothpick. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
4. Grill the Bites:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken bites on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Remove the toothpicks from the chicken bites and serve hot. Enjoy!
About the Main Ingredients:
Chicken Breast:
Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that is perfect for grilling. It cooks quickly and pairs well with the spicy jalapeno and creamy cheese filling.
Bacon:
Bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor to the chicken bites. It also helps keep the chicken moist and tender as it cooks on the grill.
Jalapeno Peppers:
Jalapeno peppers add a spicy kick to the chicken bites. Removing the seeds helps reduce the heat level, but you can adjust the amount of jalapeno peppers to suit your taste.
Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the filling. It also helps bind the other ingredients together and creates a smooth texture.
Cheddar Cheese:
Cheddar cheese adds a rich and sharp flavor to the filling. It melts beautifully and adds a delicious cheesy element to the chicken bites.
Tips for Grilling Success:
- Soak the toothpicks in water for 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Cook the chicken bites over indirect heat to prevent flare-ups from the bacon grease.
- Serve the chicken bites with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
These Bacon Jalapeno Pepper Chicken Bites are a delicious and indulgent appetizer that is perfect for grilling season. With their spicy jalapeno and creamy cheese filling, wrapped in crispy bacon, they are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue. Enjoy!
