Sizzling Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe

Crispy, cheesy smoked jalapeño popper chicken bombs deliver an explosion of flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Pockets of creamy cheese nestle inside tender chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience.

Spicy peppers add a kick that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Bold ingredients combine in a way that surprises and delights hungry crowds.

Jalapeño lovers will appreciate the perfect balance of heat and richness packed into each bite.

Comfort food meets gourmet cooking with this irresistible dish that promises to become a new favorite.

You won’t be able to resist trying these incredible chicken bombs that blend classic appetizer vibes with main course excitement.

Why Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Pack A Punch

• Boost Flavor Complexity: Discover a mouthwatering combination of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that transform ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience.
• Master Complex Cooking Technique: Learn an advanced smoking method that elevates your grilling skills while creating a show-stopping dish that impresses family and friends.
• Customize Your Comfort Food: Easily modify the recipe by adjusting spice levels, cheese types, or bacon thickness to match your personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Sensation: Prepare a protein-packed main course perfect for game days, backyard barbecues, and gatherings where guests crave bold, hearty flavors.

What You’ll Need For Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base that will be butterflied and stuffed with a flavorful mixture.

• Cream Cheese: Soft, creamy base that provides rich texture and helps bind the filling.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts beautifully and adds robust flavor to the stuffing.
• Jalapeno Peppers: Fresh peppers that bring heat and vibrant spiciness to the chicken.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall taste profile of the filling.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential spices that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds deep, smoky undertones to complement the cooking method.
• Bacon Strips: Provides a crispy exterior and additional savory richness.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy outer layer that adds textural contrast.
• Olive Oil: Helps promote even browning and maintains moisture during cooking.

How To Make Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

Step 1: Prepare Smoker

Fire up the smoker and set the temperature to 250°F. This low and slow heat will help develop deep, smoky flavors throughout the chicken.

Step 2: Butterfly Chicken Breasts

Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a wide pocket without cutting completely through. This technique allows for maximum filling and even cooking.

Step 3: Create Creamy Filling

• Softened cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Finely diced jalapeno peppers
• Minced garlic

Mix these ingredients until well blended and creamy.

Step 4: Stuff Chicken Breasts

Generously fill each chicken breast pocket with the jalapeno-cheese mixture. Press the edges together firmly to seal and prevent leaking during cooking.

Step 5: Season Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika

Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed across the entire surface.

Step 6: Wrap With Bacon

Completely encase each stuffed chicken breast with bacon strips. Wrap carefully to cover the entire surface, creating a protective and flavorful layer.

Step 7: Add Crispy Coating

Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the coating adhere and create a crunchy exterior.

Step 8: Prepare For Smoking

Lightly drizzle olive oil over the chicken bombs to promote even browning and keep the meat moist during cooking.

Step 9: Smoke The Chicken

Place the prepared chicken bombs in the smoker. Cook for 2-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the bacon turns perfectly crisp.

Step 10: Rest And Settle

Remove the chicken bombs from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and flavors to intensify.

Step 11: Serve And Enjoy

Slice the chicken bombs and serve hot. Watch as the melted cheese and smoky interior create a mouthwatering presentation.

Pro Tips For Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

• Butterfly with Precision: Create an even pocket in chicken breasts by slicing horizontally, ensuring uniform thickness for consistent cooking and perfect filling distribution.
• Cheese Filling Mastery: Mix cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapenos at room temperature for smooth blending, preventing lumpy textures and maximizing flavor infusion.
• Bacon Wrapping Technique: Overlap bacon strips slightly and stretch them gently to fully cover chicken, securing with toothpicks if needed to prevent unraveling during smoking.
• Temperature Control Trick: Use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal chicken temperature, guaranteeing safe 165°F without overcooking and maintaining juicy tenderness.
• Resting Period Secret: Allow chicken bombs to rest 10 minutes after smoking, letting juices redistribute and flavors meld for a more succulent and satisfying eating experience.

Bold Twists On Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

• Keto-Friendly Chicken Bombs: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour, eliminating carbs while maintaining crispy texture.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap cream cheese for cashew cream and use dairy-free cheddar alternative, keeping the zesty filling intact for lactose-intolerant guests.
• Spice-Adjusted Version: Reduce jalapeno quantity or substitute with mild green chiles for a family-friendly option that maintains flavor complexity.
• Grilled Outdoor Alternative: Transfer recipe to barbecue grill, maintaining 250°F temperature and using indirect heat method for similar smoky results.

What To Serve With Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

• Chill Cool Beer Companion: Select a crisp, light lager or pale ale that cuts through the richness of the bacon and cheese, refreshing your palate with each sip.
• Fresh Zesty Salad Partner: Create a tangy coleslaw with apple cider vinegar and green onions, providing a bright, acidic contrast to the smoky, spicy chicken.
• Smooth Creamy Side Kick: Whip up some ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, complementing the jalapeño heat and adding an extra layer of cool, creamy texture.
• Sweet Balancing Act: Serve with a quick corn salsa or grilled pineapple salsa to introduce a sweet element that balances the dish's intense savory and spicy profile.

How To Keep Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Fresh

• Store leftover chicken bombs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Wrap individual chicken bombs tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken bombs on a baking sheet, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place chicken bomb on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, rotating halfway through. Check temperature to ensure even heating and avoid overcooking.

Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs FAQs

• Are jalapeno peppers too spicy for this recipe?

You can adjust the heat level by removing the seeds and membranes from jalapenos, which significantly reduces their spiciness. For milder flavor, consider using poblano or bell peppers instead.

• Can I prepare chicken bombs in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken bombs up to 24 hours before cooking. Store them covered in the refrigerator and add 15-20 minutes to cooking time if preparing directly from cold.

• What type of smoker works best for this recipe?

Both electric and pellet smokers work excellently. Wood pellets like hickory or apple wood can enhance the smoky flavor profile. The key is maintaining a consistent 250°F temperature throughout cooking.

Fiery Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes – 3 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy “smoked jalapeño popper chicken bombs” deliver a delightful explosion of creamy, smoky flavors that dance across your palate. Succulent chicken wrapped around zesty peppers and rich cream cheese promises a mouthwatering adventure you won’t soon forget.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/2 lb bacon

Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 jalapeno peppers
• 2 cloves garlic

Seasoning & Coating:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the smoker to 250°F, creating an ideal environment for infusing rich, smoky flavors into the chicken.
2. Meticulously butterfly each chicken breast, creating a wide pocket for the decadent filling, ensuring even thickness for consistent cooking.
3. Finely dice jalapeno peppers and mince garlic, combining them with softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar to create a zesty, creamy filling.
4. Generously stuff each chicken breast with the jalapeno-cheese mixture, carefully sealing the edges to prevent leakage during cooking.
5. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika, massaging the spices into the meat for maximum flavor absorption.
6. Wrap each stuffed chicken breast completely with bacon strips, ensuring full coverage and adding an extra layer of savory richness.
7. Roll the bacon-wrapped chicken in breadcrumbs, creating a crisp exterior that will contrast beautifully with the tender, smoky meat.
8. Drizzle olive oil over the prepared chicken bombs to promote even browning and enhance overall moisture.
9. Place the chicken bombs in the smoker, allowing them to cook for approximately 2-3 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the bacon becomes perfectly crisp.
10. Remove from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and intensify the complex flavor profile.
11. Slice and serve hot, revealing the molten cheese and smoky, spicy interior of these indulgent chicken bombs.

Notes

• Adjust spice levels by removing jalapeno seeds for milder heat or adding extra peppers for more intense flavor.
• Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or low-fat alternatives to create a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
• Ensure chicken is completely sealed to prevent cheese from leaking during smoking, using toothpicks if necessary to secure edges.
• Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or gouda to customize the filling’s flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2-3 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg