Oven Baked Jalapeño Poppers with Chicken and Cream Cheese

Jalapeño poppers have always been one of our go-to appetizers—spicy, creamy, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat. The problem? Frozen jalapeño poppers are often packed with preservatives, sodium, and unhealthy fats, while restaurant versions are usually deep fried and even heavier. 

This oven baked jalapeño popper recipe with chicken and cream cheese is a lighter, homemade alternative that still delivers big flavor. By using lean chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and baking instead of frying, you cut back on excess fat without sacrificing taste. These are perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family snack night.

They may not be the healthiest snack on the blog—but they’re a whole lot better than the processed versions, and they disappear fast every single time.

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Ingredients for Oven Baked Jalapeño Poppers with Chicken and Cream Cheese

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large chicken breast, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning
• 1 (8-ounce) package Neufchâtel cheese or cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup Mexican cheese blend, lowfat or regular
• 1½ tablespoons yellow onion or 2 medium green onions with tops, finely diced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon tortilla chips, finely crushed
• 1 to 1½ pounds fresh medium jalapeño peppers, sliced lengthwise
• Additional Mexican cheese blend, for topping

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How to Make Oven Baked Jalapeño Poppers

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and fajita seasoning. Sauté until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Jalapeños

Slice each jalapeño in half lengthwise. Carefully remove and discard the seeds and membranes.
Tip: Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after handling peppers to avoid skin or eye irritation.

4. Make the Creamy Chicken Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream cheese, Mexican cheese blend, onion, and garlic powder. Mix well

5. Fill the Jalapeño Halves

Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken and cream cheese mixture into each jalapeño half, gently pressing it into place.

6. Add the Crunchy Topping

Instead of breading or bacon-wrapping, press a small amount of crushed tortilla chips onto the top of each filled pepper for a light, crunchy finish.

7. Bake Until Tender and Melty

Arrange the jalapeños filling-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional shredded Mexican cheese.

Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the jalapeño poppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as an appetizer, party snack, or game-day favorite.

Helpful Tips for the Best Baked Jalapeño Poppers

• For milder poppers, soak jalapeños in cold water for 10 minutes after seeding.
• Want more heat? Leave a bit of the membrane intact when you clean the peppers.
• These reheat well in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.