Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers

Name: Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 cup finely diced pineapple; 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced; 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers for gatherings! The combination of sweet pineapple and spicy jalapeno creates a burst of flavor that everyone raves about. In just a few simple steps, these crispy little bites are easy to prepare and pack a punch that will keep guests coming back for more. Whether it’s a game-day snack or a fun appetizer for a party, these poppers always steal the spotlight and bring smiles to the table.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:19:30.749Z

Creating the perfect balance of flavors is what makes Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers a hit in my home. I discovered that by lightly caramelizing the pineapple before adding it to the chicken, the sweetness intensifies and complements the heat of the jalapeno beautifully. I also like to add a bit of cream cheese to the mixture, as it adds richness and helps bind everything together.

Recently, I prepared these poppers for a family gathering, and they were gone in minutes! A little tip is to allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving; they hold together better and allow the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining that perfect crunch.

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Sweet and spicy flavor fusion that excites the palate
Crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful filling
Perfect for parties, game days, or family gatherings

      

The Key to Flavorful Filling

The filling in these Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers is what sets them apart. The combination of juicy pineapple and spicy jalapeno not only adds excitement but also moisture, preventing the chicken from drying out during frying. Ensure the pineapple is finely diced; larger pieces may result in uneven cooking. Cream cheese contributes a creamy texture that binds the ingredients while adding richness without overpowering the sweetness of the pineapple.

To heighten the flavor even further, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a teaspoon of lime juice to the mixture. This additional acidity helps to balance the sweetness of the pineapple and can enhance the overall flavor profile. Just be cautious not to add too much liquid, as this can make shaping the poppers difficult.

Perfecting the Frying Technique

Frying the poppers to achieve that golden-brown crust is a crucial step. Make sure the vegetable oil is hot enough before adding the poppers; a good temperature is around 350°F (175°C). A simple test is to drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready to go. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can reduce the oil temperature and affect the crispiness.

After frying, let the poppers rest on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step is essential for achieving that desired crispy exterior. If time allows, I recommend placing them in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) to keep warm while you finish frying the remaining batches.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers:

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup finely diced pineapple
1 jalapeno, seeded and minced
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying

Now you’re ready to cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced pineapple, minced jalapeno, cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Form the Poppers

Using your hands, shape the mixture into bite-sized balls. Roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

Heat the Oil

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until hot.

Fry the Poppers

Carefully add the poppers to the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 4–5 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve

Let the poppers cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Now enjoy your delicious poppers!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a bit of cayenne pepper to the mixture or serve with a spicy dipping sauce like sriracha mayo.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the cooled poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, avoid microwaving as this can make them soggy. Instead, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are heated through and regain their crispy texture.

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked poppers after forming them and before frying. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Fry from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time until they are golden and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

These Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers are perfect on their own, but serving them with a dipping sauce can elevate the experience. A sweet chili sauce or a creamy avocado dip pairs exceptionally well. Consider offering a few sauce options to accommodate different tastes, making your gathering even more inviting.

For a fun presentation, serve the poppers on a platter garnished with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors. Additionally, serving with toothpicks gives guests the ease of snacking while mingling, making these poppers ideal for parties or game days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen pineapple?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.

→ What if I don't like spicy food?

You can reduce the amount of jalapeno or omit it entirely for a milder taste.

→ Can these poppers be baked instead of fried?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.