Description
Jalapeno Ranch Chicken Poppers are crispy, flavorful bite-sized chicken pieces, marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture and coated with a seasoned breadcrumb blend, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Served with a cool, creamy jalapeno ranch dipping sauce, this recipe is the ultimate appetizer or snack for spice lovers craving a savory kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading Mixture
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (dry)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Jalapeno Ranch Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (dry)
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely minced (wear gloves!)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 4-6 cups)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Breading Station: In a large shallow dish, thoroughly mix all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, cornstarch, ranch seasoning, chili powder, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to create an even breading mixture.
- Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade letting excess drip off. One piece at a time, dredge each chicken cube into the breading mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
- Double Breading (Optional): For extra crispiness, briefly dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk marinade and then re-dredge in the breading mixture for a double coating.
- Arrange the Breaded Chicken: Place breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet without touching, to keep the coating intact and prevent sticking.
- Make the Jalapeno Ranch Sauce Base: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk until smooth to create a creamy base.
- Add Seasonings and Jalapenos to Sauce: Stir in ranch seasoning mix, minced jalapenos, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Mix well to infuse the sauce with fresh and tangy flavors while handling jalapenos carefully with gloves.
- Season Sauce to Taste: Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings to balance the creamy spice.
- Chill the Sauce: Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors thoroughly.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer and heat over medium-high until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place breaded chicken pieces into hot oil without overcrowding. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry chicken poppers for 3-4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon to fry evenly. Chicken is done when golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked poppers to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the hot, crispy Jalapeno Ranch Chicken Poppers straight away for the best texture and flavor.
- Dipping Time: Accompany with chilled jalapeno ranch sauce for dipping to complement the spicy crunch.
- Optional Garnish: Garnish with extra chopped fresh cilantro or a light sprinkle of paprika to enhance visual appeal and add a touch of freshness.
Notes
- Wear gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid skin irritation.
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) will improve tenderness and flavor.
- Double breading is optional but recommended for extra crispy poppers.
- Maintain oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F for best frying results.
- Drain fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels for crispier texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper or hot sauce amount to control spiciness.
- Leftover sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Jalapeno Ranch Chicken Poppers, crispy chicken bites, spicy chicken appetizers, fried chicken poppers, jalapeno ranch dip, finger foods
