Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe

Sizzling Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe For Dinner

Spice hunters rejoice as these smoked jalapeño popper chicken bombs deliver a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.

Crispy, creamy, and packed with heat, this recipe combines the best elements of classic jalapeño poppers with juicy chicken.

Tender chicken breasts get stuffed with a dreamy cream cheese mixture that melts into pure deliciousness.

Jalapeños add a sharp kick while bacon wrapping ensures every bite is crisp and indulgent.

The smoking process infuses each chicken bomb with a rich, smoky depth that elevates the entire dish.

Perfectly balanced between creamy, spicy, and smoky, these chicken bombs promise to be the star of any gathering.

Prepare to transform your next meal into an unforgettable culinary adventure that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs: Why You’ll Love These Bites

  • Dive into a mouthwatering combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and smoky chicken that transforms an ordinary meal into a taste adventure.
  • Easily control the spiciness by removing jalapeño seeds, making this recipe perfect for different heat tolerances in your family or friend group.
  • Impress guests with these stunning chicken bombs that look complicated but are surprisingly simple to prepare, making them ideal for gatherings, game days, or casual get-togethers.
  • Packed with protein from chicken and sausage, this recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious option that keeps hunger at bay while delivering incredible flavor.

What Goes Into Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

Protein Base:
  • Chicken Breasts: Thin cuts serve as the main wrapper for the spicy filling.
  • Hot Italian Sausage: Adds rich, spicy flavor to the internal mixture.
Stuffing Components:
  • Cream Cheese: Provides a smooth and creamy texture to bind the filling.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Delivers a tangy and sharp flavor profile.
  • Green Onions: Introduces a fresh and mild onion taste to the stuffing.
Spicy and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Jalapeno Peppers: Core ingredient that brings heat and signature pepper flavor.
  • Bacon Strips: Wraps the chicken bombs for added smoky and crispy texture.
  • Slap Ya Mama Seasoning, Black Pepper: Provides robust and zesty seasoning to the chicken.
  • BBQ Sauce: Creates a sweet and tangy glaze during smoking.
Additional Components:
  • Toothpicks: Used to secure bacon around chicken rolls.
  • Parchment Paper: Helps with initial chicken preparation.

Essential Tools for Popper Chicken Bombs

  • Smoker: Essential for infusing rich, smoky flavor into the chicken bombs.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for slicing jalapeños and preparing ingredients.
  • Sharp Knife: Perfect for precise cutting of jalapeños and trimming chicken.
  • Mixing Bowl: Ideal for combining sausage, cream cheese, and other stuffing ingredients.
  • Toothpicks: Crucial for securing bacon around chicken rolls.
  • Baking Sheet: Useful for preparing and arranging chicken before smoking.
  • Meat Thermometer: Necessary to check internal chicken temperature reaches 165F.
  • Basting Brush: Great for applying BBQ sauce glaze during smoking.
  • Tongs: Helpful for handling and turning chicken bombs on smoker grates.

How to Prepare Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs

Step 1: Fire Up The Smoker

Get your smoker ready by heating it to a steady 250F.

This temperature will slowly cook the chicken and infuse a deep, rich smoky essence into every delicious bite.

Step 2: Create Flavor Explosion

In a mixing bowl, combine these mouthwatering ingredients:
  • Hot Italian sausage
  • Cream cheese
  • Sharp cheddar cheese
  • Green onions

Blend these components until they form a creamy, spicy mixture that will make taste buds dance.

Step 3: Tame The Peppers

Slice jalapeños lengthwise and carefully remove their seeds.

This helps control the heat level while keeping the pepper’s vibrant flavor intact.

Step 4: Stuff Those Peppers

Generously fill each jalapeño half with the sausage and cheese mixture.

Don’t hold back – make every pepper a flavor-packed gem.

Step 5: Prepare Chicken Canvas

Lay chicken breasts flat and sprinkle with Slap Ya Mama Seasoning and black pepper.

These will become your flavor carriers.

Step 6: Roll And Wrap

Place a stuffed jalapeño on each chicken breast and roll tightly.

Each roll is like a flavor package waiting to be unwrapped.

Step 7: Bacon Blanket

Lovingly wrap each chicken roll with bacon strips.

Secure with toothpicks to keep everything snug and secure.

Step 8: Smoky Transformation

Position chicken bombs on smoker grates.

Let them smoke for approximately 4 hours, rotating midway to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor development.

Step 9: Glaze Magic

During the final 20-30 minutes, brush the chicken bombs with BBQ sauce.

This adds a sweet and tangy finish that will make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 10: Safety First

Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165F.

This ensures perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken bombs bursting with flavor.

Tips for Extra Smoky, Flavorful Chicken Bombs

  • Remove all seeds and membranes from jalapenos to minimize spiciness while keeping the pepper's flavor profile intact.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending and easier stuffing of jalapenos with the sausage mixture.
  • Slightly overlap bacon strips and secure tightly with toothpicks to prevent unraveling during smoking process.
  • Spray chicken bombs with apple juice every hour to keep meat tender and prevent drying out during long smoking time.
  • Use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches exact 165F internal temperature for food safety without overcooking.

Chicken Bomb Variations to Change Things Up

  • Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken and sausage with plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh. Stuff with vegan cream cheese, nutritional yeast, and roasted vegetables for a protein-packed vegetarian version.
  • Keto-Friendly Option: Swap out BBQ sauce for a low-carb sugar-free glaze. Use full-fat cream cheese and choose bacon without added sugars. Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete keto meal.
  • Spice Level Adjustment: For milder taste, use poblano peppers instead of jalapenos. Add mild green chiles or bell peppers for less heat while maintaining flavor complexity. Select a smoky paprika seasoning to enhance the overall taste profile.

Serving Smoked Popper Chicken Bombs for Any Gathering

  • Flavor Explosion Platter: Arrange chicken bombs on a rustic wooden board with fresh cilantro sprigs and lime wedges for a restaurant-style presentation that screams deliciousness.
  • Dipping Delight: Whip up a quick cool ranch or spicy chipotle mayo dip to complement the smoky, spicy chicken bombs and balance their intense flavors.
  • Sidekick Companions: Pair with creamy coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, or a light summer salad to cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Game Day Champion: Serve as an irresistible appetizer during sports events, tailgating parties, or backyard barbecues where bold, crowd-pleasing flavors reign supreme.

Storing Chicken Bombs for the Best Texture

  • Wrap individual chicken bombs tightly in aluminum foil or place in airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for 3-4 days, ensuring they stay fresh and maintain their delicious flavor.
  • Carefully wrap each chicken bomb in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months, preserving their smoky goodness for later enjoyment.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Remove wrapping and place chicken bombs on a baking sheet. Warm for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.

FAQs

  • How spicy are these chicken bombs?

The heat level depends on the jalapeños. Removing seeds reduces spiciness, but the hot Italian sausage adds a kick. You can control the heat by selecting milder or spicier jalapeños.

  • Can I use different meats for stuffing?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chorizo, or ground beef work great. Each meat brings its own unique flavor profile to the chicken bombs.

  • What if I don't have a smoker?

No worries! You can use an oven at 250F. The cooking time remains similar, but you’ll miss the smoky flavor. Consider adding liquid smoke or using a grill for similar results.

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Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe

Smoked Jalapeno Popper Chicken Bombs Recipe


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4.5 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Spicy smoked jalapeño popper chicken bombs combine creamy cheese and smoky heat in a delightful appetizer. Guests will savor the rich flavors and crave seconds at your next gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 10 thin boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 pound (454 grams) hot Italian sausage
  • 36 ounces (1020 grams) bacon (3 packs)

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 6 ounces (170 grams) cream cheese
  • 1.5 cups (170 grams) sharp cheddar cheese

Seasonings and Produce:

  • 10 jalapenos
  • 1/3 cup (53 grams) sliced green onions
  • 2 tablespoons Slap Ya Mama Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • BBQ sauce for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the smoker at 250F to establish a robust, aromatic smoking environment for the chicken bombs.
  2. Combine hot Italian sausage, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and green onions in a mixing bowl, creating a rich, flavorful stuffing mixture.
  3. Trim jalapeno ends, slice lengthwise, and meticulously remove seeds to control spice intensity.
  4. Generously fill each jalapeno half with the prepared sausage-cheese blend, ensuring complete coverage.
  5. Arrange chicken breasts on parchment-lined surface, generously seasoning with Slap Ya Mama and black pepper for enhanced flavor profile.
  6. Position a stuffed jalapeno at the edge of each chicken breast, carefully rolling to encase the filling completely.
  7. Envelop each chicken roll with bacon strips, securing tightly with toothpicks to maintain structural integrity.
  8. Transfer chicken bombs to smoker grates, allowing them to smoke for approximately 4 hours, rotating midway to guarantee uniform cooking and smoke penetration.
  9. During the final 20-30 minutes, liberally apply BBQ sauce, creating a caramelized, glossy exterior that adds complexity to the flavor.
  10. Verify internal temperature reaches 165F, ensuring both safety and optimal doneness before serving.

Notes

  • Customize Heat Level By removing seeds and membranes from jalapeños, you can control the spiciness for sensitive palates or kids.
  • Balance Flavors Choose a smoky BBQ sauce that complements the rich, creamy stuffing and enhances the overall taste profile.
  • Prep Ahead Assemble chicken bombs a day before smoking to let flavors meld and simplify day-of cooking process.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods When smoker isn’t available, bake chicken bombs in a 350F oven for 45-50 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4 hours
  • Category: Appetizer, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 36 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 39 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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