Baked Chicken Stuffed Jalapeno Bites are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring together the spiciness of jalapenos and the richness of seasoned chicken. This dish likely originates from Tex-Mex cuisine, known for its vibrant and robust combination of ingredients. These bites make for a fantastic appetizer or snack, perfect for entertaining guests or spicing up a weeknight dinner. The creamy filling balances the heat from the jalapenos, making each bite a flavorful experience that you’ll want to recreate again and again.

These Baked Chicken Stuffed Jalapeno Bites pair wonderfully with a side of cool, creamy guacamole or a fresh corn salad to complement the spicy heat. Additionally, they can be served with a zesty lime-cilantro dipping sauce or sour cream to further enhance the flavors. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a hearty bean soup or a light, crisp garden salad.

Servings: 4-6 servings

12-15 large jalapeno peppers
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Non-stick cooking spray

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray.

Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes to create boat-like shapes. Be careful and consider wearing gloves to avoid irritation from the jalapeno oils.

In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Fill each jalapeno half with the chicken mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the filling stays in place.

Arrange the stuffed jalapenos on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the jalapenos are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the shredded chicken with crumbled bacon or sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using a combination of black beans and corn with the cheese filling. For those who enjoy extra heat, leave some of the jalapeno seeds in the filling or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Additionally, you can experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Monterey Jack to change up the flavor.

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