Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives

Name: Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 12 fresh jalapenos; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

When I first tasted Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives, I was immediately hooked! The creamy filling perfectly balances the fiery heat of the jalapenos, creating a bite-sized explosion of flavor that's just irresistible. I love making these poppers for gatherings; they always disappear quickly. The freshness of chives adds a delightful twist that elevates this simple appetizer. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them my go-to recipe for impressing friends and family alike!

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:01:34.561Z

Creating Jalapeno Poppers with Cream Cheese and Chives has become one of my favorite culinary adventures. I experimented with different fillings, but nothing compares to this perfect blend. The creamy texture wraps around the heat of the jalapeño, offering a delightful contrast that really excites the taste buds. The addition of chives not only enhances the flavor but also gives a pop of color!

When scheduling gatherings, I ensure to make these poppers in advance because they are best served hot and fresh. I’ve learned that broiling them for a few extra minutes at the end gives them that irresistible golden appearance. Don’t skip this step—it truly takes them to another level!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        The creamy filling pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of jalapenos.
Each bite is bursting with flavor and a hint of fresh chives.
They are an easy yet impressive appetizer for any occasion.

      

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling for these Jalapeno Poppers is what truly sets them apart. Using softened cream cheese as the base provides a luscious, smooth texture that melds beautifully with the sharp flavor of cheddar. I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for a rich taste, but if you're looking for a lighter option, reduced-fat cream cheese still works well. Mixing the cheeses until smooth ensures an even distribution of flavor, so don't rush this step; take the time to blend until glossy.

Chives are a star ingredient in this recipe. Their mild onion flavor adds brightness, counterbalancing the rich cheese and spicy jalapenos. Make sure to chop them finely; this allows their flavor to infuse the entire filling without overwhelming the other ingredients. If you're unable to find fresh chives, green onions can serve as a suitable substitute, providing a similar taste profile.

Baking Tips for Optimal Texture

When baking jalapeno poppers, oven temperature plays a crucial role. Preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) allows the poppers to cook evenly, ensuring that the jalapenos become tender without losing their integrity. Keep an eye on them during the baking process; the poppers should take about 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the jalapenos are fork-tender. If baking for a larger crowd, consider using two baking sheets to ensure proper heat circulation.

For a crunchier texture, using breadcrumbs as a topping is a great idea. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on the flavor profile you desire. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for added depth. Just remember, if these poppers will sit for a bit before serving, skip the breadcrumbs until just before baking to maintain their crunch.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

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

Have everything ready? Let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Jalapeno Poppers:

Prepare the Jalapenos

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the jalapenos in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor. If you prefer more heat, leave some seeds.

Make the Filling

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

Fill the Jalapenos

Using a spoon, generously fill each jalapeno half with the cheese mixture. For an extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

Bake

Place the stuffed jalapenos on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the jalapenos are tender and the tops are golden brown.

Serve

Allow the poppers to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a tasty appetizer!

Now you're ready to enjoy your delicious Jalapeno Poppers!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, try mixing in some cooked bacon bits into your cheese filling. It adds a delightful savory kick!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover jalapeno poppers (which is rare!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the poppers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as this can make the poppers soggy and the filling less enjoyable.

For longer storage, these poppers freeze remarkably well. Before baking, arrange the filled jalapenos on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Cook straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time while keeping an eye on them for doneness.

Serving Suggestions

These jalapeno poppers stand alone as a fantastic appetizer, but you can elevate your presentation by serving them with a variety of dipping sauces. A creamy ranch or a spicy sriracha aioli pairs beautifully with the heat of the jalapenos. Just a small bowl of these sauces on the side makes for an appealing and interactive snack.

If you're looking to turn these poppers into a more substantial dish, consider serving them on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. This balances the richness of the filling and provides a fresh contrast. Alternatively, use them as a topping for nachos—simply chop them up and add them on top of cheese, salsa, and tortilla chips for a fun twist at your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Jalapeno Poppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ How can I make them spicier?

Leave some seeds and membranes in the jalapenos or add hot sauce to the cheese mixture.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends.

→ Are these poppers gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or skipping the topping.