Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs are the perfect BBQ treat, offering a delightful combination of smoky chicken, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon. The chicken breasts are stuffed with a rich cheese mixture, rolled tightly, and wrapped in bacon before being smoked to perfection. In the last 15 minutes of smoking, they're brushed with BBQ sauce, adding a sweet and savory glaze. These chicken bombs are a crowd-pleasing dish, ideal for gatherings or special occasions where bold flavors are a must.
Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs are the perfect combination of bold, smoky flavors and cheesy goodness. Chicken breasts are pounded thin and stuffed with a zesty filling made from cream cheese, cheddar, and diced jalapeños. Once rolled, the chicken is wrapped in crispy bacon and smoked low and slow to bring out that irresistible BBQ flavor. With each bite, you'll experience the creamy, spicy jalapeño popper filling paired with the savory chicken and smoky bacon, making these chicken bombs a must-try for BBQ lovers.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken breasts: 4 large, pounded thin
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Jalapeños: 4-6, seeded and diced
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Bacon slices: 12 slices
- BBQ sauce: for glazing
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Step 2:
- Flatten the chicken breasts with a mallet and spoon the filling onto each one. Roll them tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve these chicken bombs hot off the smoker with a side of BBQ sauce for dipping. Pair with grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven to maintain the crispy bacon texture.
Helpful Notes
- For an extra kick, leave some of the jalapeño seeds in the filling or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef James suggests using thick-cut bacon for an extra crispy and flavorful wrap around the chicken.
How to Achieve the Perfect Smoky Flavor
To get the perfect smoky flavor in your chicken bombs, it’s important to maintain a consistent smoker temperature. Using wood chips like hickory or mesquite will add a bold, smoky taste that complements the spicy filling and bacon wrapping.
Why Bacon-Wrapped Chicken is a BBQ Favorite
Bacon-wrapped chicken is a popular choice for BBQ because it brings together tender, juicy chicken with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon. The bacon also helps seal in the moisture of the chicken while adding a crispy, savory exterior, making it a hit at any BBQ gathering.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of smoking them?
Yes! If you don’t have a smoker, you can bake the chicken bombs at 375°F (190°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
What’s the best way to secure the filling inside?
Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls tightly. Make sure the ends of the chicken are tucked in, and wrap the bacon around to seal in the filling.
Summary
Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs combine the smoky richness of BBQ with the spicy, cheesy goodness of jalapeño poppers. Each chicken breast is stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapeños, then wrapped in bacon and smoked until the chicken is tender and the bacon is crispy. The result is a flavor-packed dish with a smoky, savory taste, perfect for BBQs or as an appetizer at any gathering. Finish with a BBQ glaze for an extra layer of flavor, and serve hot to enjoy a burst of tastes in every bite.