Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
1/ Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2/ Slice the jalapeño peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
3/ In a small bowl, mix the cream cheese and shredded cheese until smooth. Add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 2: Flatten the Chicken
1/ Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
2/ Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ¼ inch (0.6 cm).
3/ Season the chicken on both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
1/ Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into each halved jalapeño pepper.
2/ Lay a piece of flattened chicken on a clean surface and place a stuffed jalapeño at one end.
3/ Roll the chicken tightly around the jalapeño and secure with a toothpick if needed.
4/ Wrap each chicken roll with 1-2 slices of bacon, ensuring the bacon completely covers the chicken to lock in moisture and flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Rolls
Option 1: Oven-Baked
1/ Place the bacon-wrapped chicken rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
2/ Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
3/ For an extra-crispy finish, broil the rolls for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Option 2: Grilled
1/ Preheat your grill to medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
2/ Place the rolls on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking.
3/ Brush with glaze during the last 5 minutes for a caramelized finish.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
1/ In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
2/ Heat over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
3/ Brush the glaze onto the chicken rolls during the final minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
1/ Serve these chicken rolls with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.
2/ Add a refreshing cabbage slaw or a simple garden salad to balance the richness of the rolls.
3/ Offer a dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or a tangy barbecue sauce, for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for Success
1/ Control the Heat: If you prefer milder heat, use mini sweet peppers instead of jalapeños.
2/ Keep the Bacon in Place: Secure the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
3/ Double the Recipe: These rolls are a crowd-pleaser—prepare extra if you’re hosting a gathering.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The combination of bacon-wrapped stuffed jalapeño chicken rolls delivers a symphony of textures and flavors. From the smoky bacon and tender chicken to the creamy, spicy jalapeño filling, every bite is a delicious masterpiece. Perfectly versatile, these rolls can shine at a barbecue, family dinner, or holiday feast.
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