Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 poppers
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional); Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives for gatherings or a cozy night in. The spicy kick from the jalapenos perfectly balances with the creamy, chive-infused filling, creating a delightful treat that everyone devours. Preparing these pops is a breeze, and they come together in just 30 minutes! Whether served as an appetizer or snack, these poppers are always a hit on my table and leave my guests raving about them long after the last bite.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:57:34.963Z

When I first whip up a batch of Jalapeno Poppers, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that instantly gets everyone excited! The combination of cream cheese and fresh chives mixed with the heat from the jalapenos is my perfect flavor pairing. I've experimented with different spices, but simply adding garlic powder enhances the taste without overpowering it, allowing the jalapenos to shine.

I like to bake my poppers instead of frying, giving them a lovely crunch while keeping the filling warm and gooey. A subtle sprinkle of smoked paprika on top creates an eye-catching finish and adds depth to every bite. Trust me—once you try making them this way, you'll never look back!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        The creamy filling is a delightful contrast to the spicy pepper.
Perfect for sharing, making them an ideal party snack.
Baking instead of frying adds a crispy texture with less oil.

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Poppers

When preparing jalapenos, the most critical step is managing the heat. If you're looking to tone down the spice, be diligent when removing the seeds and membranes. This part contains most of the capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat. For a milder kick yet still packed with flavor, leave some of the seeds in the less spicy peppers, or consider using smaller, milder jalapenos instead.

Baking instead of frying is a game changer for these poppers. Not only does it reduce the amount of oil used, but it also enhances the texture. To achieve that perfect crispy top, make sure to lightly spray the assembled poppers with olive oil before baking. A golden brown appearance is a good visual cue that your poppers are ready to come out of the oven.

Ingredient Importance and Substitutions

While cream cheese is traditional for the filling, experimenting with other cheeses can give your poppers a unique twist. Try using goat cheese or a spicy pepper jack for additional flavor. Additionally, if you want a healthier option, cottage cheese can be blended until smooth and used instead. The key is to maintain a creamy texture that binds the other ingredients while complementing the spiciness of the jalapeno.

Chives add a fresh flavor to the filling, but you can also substitute them with green onions or scallions if you prefer a different taste. If you don’t have any fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can work in a pinch; just remember that they are more concentrated, so use them sparingly. For a nutty flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to the filling.

Ingredients

For the Poppers

12 fresh jalapenos
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor if desired.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped chives, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.

Stuff the Jalapenos

Spoon the filling mixture into each jalapeno half, leveling off the top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top of the filled poppers.

Bake the Poppers

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the poppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced cooked bacon to the filling. If you prefer them less spicy, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapenos.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These jalapeno poppers can be made ahead of time, which is ideal for parties. Once stuffed, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just remove the wrap, top with olive oil spray, and pop them directly into the oven. This method allows the flavors to meld while ensuring your preparation is hassle-free on the day of your gathering.

If you have leftover poppers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to retain their crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to a soggy outcome.

Serving Ideas and Dipping Sauces

These Jalapeno Poppers are fantastic on their own but can be elevated with various dipping sauces. Consider serving them with a cool ranch dressing or a zesty salsa to contrast the heat of the peppers. For a gourmet touch, a sweet chili sauce offers an intriguing flavor balance, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

For a fun twist, try serving poppers on skewers with chunks of grilled chicken or shrimp between them. This not only adds protein but also turns them into a delightful finger food that guests can enjoy as they mingle. Pair it with a refreshing beverage to cool down the heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these poppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the poppers, stuff them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I dip these poppers in?

Popular dipping options include ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa.

→ Can I freeze jalapeno poppers?

Yes, stuffed jalapeno poppers can be frozen. Just ensure they are well-wrapped and can be baked straight from the freezer.

→ How spicy are these poppers?

The spiciness can vary depending on the jalapenos you use. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat significantly.