These are always a big hit at parties, BBQ's, and family functions which is where they got their name. My family usually asks my to make my Bri-apeños for all our gatherings. I really enjoy the surprise in these as you never know what ones are going to be spicy or not. There are a few tricks I have learned along the way in picking the peppers, which have been slightly successful. It is said the smoother their skin is, the more mild. So to pick a spicy one, try to get the wrinkled and scarred ones as these are more mature. A common myth is that removing the seeds helps to remove the heat, this is false as the heat is usually is in the membrane. There is also more heat the closer you get to the stem. Now that I have filled your head with jalapeño knowledge, here is my recipe for these mouth watering appetizers.
This is a recipe for baking them in an oven, although you could easily grill these. I have done both, I prefer this method.
Ingredients: (For 10 poppers)
- Jalapeño, half of however many you are planning to serve. (The picture above made 10 poppers with 5 jalapeños)
- 8 ounces of cream cheese
- 2 cups of mixed shredded cheese (such as a Mexican or cheddar mix)
- 1 pound of chicken
- 16 ounce package of bacon
Cooking
1. Preheat the oven to 400 ° F
2. Cook the chicken through and shred
3. Melt the cheese together and add the chicken
4. Cut the jalapeños in half and hollow
5. Fill the jalapeños with the chicken and cheese mixture
6. Wrap a full slice of uncooked bacon around the jalapeno and mixture and secure it in place with a toothpick if needed
7. Place the Bri-apeños on an ungreased baking sheet and cook in the oven until the bacon is cooked and slightly crispy. Depending on he thickness of bacon, this can be anywhere from 15-25 minutes
8. Enjoy!
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