Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Popper Chicken Skewers
These crispy bacon-wrapped jalapeño popper chicken skewers combine smoky bacon, spicy jalapeño, creamy cheese, and tender chicken for perfect party snacks that are quick and easy to make.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 skewers per serving 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 1 pound)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 100 grams)
- 3–4 fresh jalapeños, sliced lengthwise and chopped (seeds removed for mild heat or kept for spicier)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Bacon strips, thin or regular cut, enough to wrap each chicken piece
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined and creamy.
- Slice jalapeños lengthwise, remove seeds if desired, chop into small pieces, and fold gently into the cheese mixture.
- Dice chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spread a small amount of the cheese filling on each chicken cube.
- Wrap each chicken piece with half a slice of bacon, securing with a soaked wooden skewer or threading onto metal skewers so the bacon covers the chicken and cheese snugly.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F) or preheat oven broiler.
- Place skewers on the grill or baking tray and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs, until bacon is crispy and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. If bacon isn’t crisping well, finish skewers under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the grill for even cooking. Assemble skewers ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking. For a lighter filling, mix Greek yogurt into cream cheese. Use pepper jack cheese for more spice. Can be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 skewers
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 28
Keywords: bacon-wrapped, jalapeño popper, chicken skewers, party snacks, easy recipe, smoky, spicy, creamy, quick appetizers