Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers

Name: Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 1 cup pineapple, chopped; 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cross-Cultural Cooking

I absolutely love making Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers for gatherings with friends and family. The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapeno creates an explosion of flavors that everyone appreciates. These little bites are perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. The best part is how easy they are to make; with just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these, they will become a staple at your parties!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-16T12:42:28.348Z

In my quest to create the perfect appetizer, I stumbled upon the delightful combination of pineapple and jalapeno. I remember the first time I served these, guests were hesitant at first but instantly hooked after the first bite. The contrast of sweet and heat works wonders, and I've tweaked the recipe over time to get just the right balance. Recently, I added a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and it took the dish to another level!

Tips for the best results: always use fresh ingredients where possible, as they elevate the overall taste. I also recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before assembly; this ensures each bite packs a burst of flavor. Plus, grilling them provides that perfect char we all love. Enjoy!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Unexpected sweet and spicy flavor combination
Juicy chicken stuffed with delightful fillings
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings

      

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right chicken breast is crucial for your Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers. Opt for boneless, skinless breasts which can be easily diced and cooked quickly, ensuring juicy results. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with turkey breast, which will still absorb the flavors well but may require a slightly shorter grill time due to its leanness.

The balance of sweetness and heat is what makes these poppers stand out. When selecting your jalapenos, aim for medium-sized peppers. If you're looking for a milder flavor, you can use less spicy peppers like Anaheim or omit the seeds entirely, as this will take away some of the heat without sacrificing flavor. For those who love bold flavors, consider using serrano peppers instead.

Grilling Techniques

Preheating the grill properly is key to achieving perfect grill marks and an even cook. Aim for a medium-high heat, around 400°F to 425°F, before placing your poppers on the grates. This high temperature not only helps in browning the chicken but also enhances the jalapeno's flavor, giving it a smoky taste that complements the sweetness of the pineapple beautifully.

While grilling, turn the poppers occasionally, approximately every 3-4 minutes. This not only ensures even cooking but also prevents the bottoms from burning. Look for the chicken to be fully cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F, which typically takes about 10–12 minutes. If you find that the jalapeno skins are browning too quickly, you can simply move them to a cooler part of the grill.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 cup pineapple, chopped
2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly for a delightful filling.

Instructions

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, pineapple, jalapenos, cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuff the Chicken

Use a small spoon to fill each jalapeno half with the chicken mixture. Press down gently to ensure each piece is packed tightly.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grates.

Grill the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

These poppers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill!

Pro Tips

For extra kick, add a few drops of hot sauce to the filling mixture. Serve with a side of ranch or avocado dip for added creaminess.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead for a gathering, these chicken poppers can be assembled a day in advance. Simply prepare the filling and stuff the jalapeno halves, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This saves time on the day of your event and allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste when grilled fresh.

Leftover poppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven set to 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to regain that delicious char, which will elevate their taste.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a creamy ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo to complement the heat. For a tropical twist, a mango salsa or pineapple relish can elevate the dish, creating a refreshing contrast to the spice of the jalapenos.

For a fun twist, you can also experiment with the fillings. Try adding diced red bell peppers or corn for added sweetness and texture. Alternatively, for those who prefer a meat-free option, you can replace the chicken with black beans and quinoa, maintaining the same cooking process and offering a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these poppers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling a day before and assemble them right before grilling.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a lighter version.

→ Are these poppers spicy?

They have a mild spice due to jalapenos. You can reduce the quantity if you prefer them less spicy.

→ Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.