Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Family Collection

I love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives because they always impress my guests. The combination of spicy jalapenos and creamy filling creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each popper is a bite-sized delight, making them ideal for parties or game day. Plus, I appreciate how simple they are to prepare, with just a few ingredients that pack a punch. The crispy outside and savory filling make for an irresistible snack that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:57:34.510Z

When I first made Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives, I was surprised by how quickly they disappeared! The creamy mixture of cheese and fresh chives perfectly compliments the spicy kick of the jalapenos. I learned that preheating the oven thoroughly really makes a difference in achieving that perfect crispy texture.

Over time, I've tried various filling combinations, but the classic cream cheese remains my favorite. A tip I picked up is to adjust the amount of chives based on your taste—sometimes I add more for that extra burst of flavor!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Spicy kick balanced with creamy cheese
Easy to make and perfect for gatherings
Customize with your favorite herbs and spices

      

Perfecting Your Jalapeno Poppers

The key to making outstanding jalapeno poppers lies in choosing the right jalapenos. Look for peppers that are firm with a smooth skin, and size them according to your preference for heat. Smaller jalapenos generally pack a more intense heat, while larger ones may offer a milder flavor. If you prefer a slightly less spicy version, consider soaking them in vinegar for a few minutes before preparing, as this can help mellow the heat while still retaining their signature flavor.

When it comes to the filling, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This allows for easier mixing and ensures a smooth, creamy texture that spreads seamlessly into the jalapeno halves. You can also experiment with adding different cheeses, such as pepper jack for an extra kick, or goat cheese for a tangy twist. These variations can elevate the flavor profile, making each batch uniquely delicious.

Baking Tips for the Best Texture

To achieve that perfectly crispy exterior, be mindful of your breadcrumb choice. Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice as they create a lighter, crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute with crushed rice crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan or Italian seasoning with your breadcrumbs before coating the poppers.

During baking, watch the jalapeno poppers closely towards the end of the cooking time. They should be removed from the oven once the tops are golden brown and crisp, which usually takes around 20 minutes. If the tops aren’t browning as desired, you can switch to broil mode for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning. Cooling them for a few minutes after baking will also help the filling set slightly, making them easier to handle while serving.

Ingredients

To create these delicious Jalapeno Poppers, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

12 fresh jalapenos, halved and seeded
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

With all the ingredients ready, you're set to start prepping your poppers!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Halve the jalapenos lengthwise and carefully remove the seeds and membranes with a small spoon.

Make the filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Stuff the jalapenos

Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each jalapeno half, filling them generously. Press down gently to ensure the filling stays inside.

Coat with breadcrumbs

Coat each stuffed jalapeno in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the poppers

Bake for about 20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown and crispy.

Serve and enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers warm!

Enjoy your crispy, creamy Jalapeno Poppers as a perfect snack or appetizer!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some diced bacon into the cheese filling. If you prefer less heat, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos.

Storage and Reheating

If you've made a large batch of jalapeno poppers, storing them is easy! Simply place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking, and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. These make for a great snack even after a couple of days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the poppers before baking. Lay the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag once frozen. They can be stored this way for up to two months. When ready to bake, there's no need to thaw; just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno poppers can be served plain, but they also pair excellently with a variety of dipping sauces. A cool ranch or creamy blue cheese dressing complements the heat beautifully. You might also enjoy them with a fresh avocado salsa or even a sweet honey dip to balance the spiciness. For a festive presentation, serve them on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a splash of color.

These poppers not only shine at parties but can also be enjoyed as a main course alongside a salad or grilled vegetables. For a complete snack platter, consider adding other finger foods like mini sliders, stuffed mushrooms, or vegetable platters, making it an appealing spread for game day or gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the jalapenos in advance and then bake them just before serving.

→ Can I freeze the Jalapeno Poppers?

Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, just bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, feta, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.