Game day is simply not the same without the delicious crunch of Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers. Fresh jalapenos stuffed with creamy cheese filling and wrapped in crispy bacon create a taste sensation like no other. These poppers can be assembled up to two days in advance, and they only take 8-10 minutes to cook! In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers, an essential addition to your collection of air fryer recipes.
Ⅰ. Ingredients Preparation
- Jalapenos: Look for large jalapenos to make stuffing and wrapping easier. Ensure they are straight enough to lay flat on the baking sheet, preventing the filling from spilling out. Choosing the right jalapenos is the first step to ensuring your Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers turn out perfect every time.
- Cream Cheese: I usually opt for low-fat cream cheese unless I’m baking. However, feel free to use full-fat cream cheese if you prefer. The creaminess of the cheese balances the heat of the jalapenos beautifully, creating a delightful bite that’s hard to resist.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use the sharpest cheddar cheese you can find! For a slightly lighter option, 2% milk sharp cheddar works well and cuts down on fat and calories. The robust flavor of the cheddar is key to making these poppers irresistible.
- Green Onions or Chives: Both green onions and chives work for this recipe. If you choose green onions, make sure to chop them finely. The subtle onion flavor adds a nice touch without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Chicken: Leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Chop it finely with a sharp knife. The addition of chicken adds a nice texture and makes the poppers more substantial, perfect for a hearty snack.
- Hot Sauce: For that authentic Buffalo chicken flavor, Frank’s RedHot is the go-to choice. The hot sauce adds a tangy kick that complements the creaminess of the cheese and the spiciness of the jalapenos.
- Bacon: I use both center-cut and regular bacon. Avoid thick-cut bacon as it requires a longer cooking time, which might overcook the jalapenos. Bacon adds a delightful crispiness that makes these poppers truly addictive.
Ⅱ. Cooking Steps with an Air Fryer
1.Preparation
Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Be careful as this is where the heat of the jalapeno resides. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped green onions (or chives), finely chopped chicken, and a few dashes of hot sauce.
2.Stuffing and Wrapping
Fill each jalapeno half with the cheese and chicken mixture. Do not overfill to avoid spillage. Wrap each stuffed jalapeno with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary.
3.Air Frying
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the wrapped jalapenos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. Cook for 8-10 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Ⅲ. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers
1.Choose the Right Jalapenos
Selecting large, straight jalapenos will make stuffing and wrapping easier and ensure even cooking. The size and shape of the jalapenos can significantly impact the final outcome, so take your time to pick the best ones.
2.Balance the Filling
Adjust the cream cheese and cheddar cheese ratio to your liking. For a richer filling, increase the cheddar cheese. Experimenting with the filling can help you find the perfect balance that suits your taste buds.
3.Don’t Overfill
Prevent spillage by not overstuffing the jalapenos. This will also ensure the bacon wraps securely around the jalapeno. A little bit of filling goes a long way in these poppers.
4.Bacon Selection
Opt for thinner bacon cuts for quicker and more even cooking. Thick-cut bacon can take longer and may result in overcooked jalapenos. If you prefer extra crispy bacon, pre-cook it slightly before wrapping around the jalapenos.
5.Check During Cooking
Monitor the poppers while they cook to avoid burning. Each air fryer can vary slightly in cooking times and temperatures. Keeping an eye on them will help you achieve the perfect level of crispiness.
Ⅳ. Conclusion
Air Fryer Jalapeno Poppers are a testament to the versatility of this kitchen appliance, making it easy to prepare delicious snacks that are both crispy and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing for a game day or simply craving a spicy treat, these poppers are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and crispy in every bite, and don’t be surprised if they become a regular feature in your air fryer recipes collection.