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 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced; 2 jalapenos, seeded and minced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon pineapple juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers for gatherings and parties. These poppers combine the sweetness of fresh pineapple with the kick of jalapenos, creating a fantastic flavor explosion. The tender chicken provides the perfect base for this delightful mix, and I can’t get enough of the contrast between the spicy and sweet components. When I serve these, they're always the first gone! It’s a vibrant dish that brings everyone together, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-16T13:56:28.090Z

When I first experimented with Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers, I was amazed at how well these two ingredients played off each other. The spicy jalapenos paired with the sweet pineapple created a remarkable blend that was simply irresistible. It took some trial and error, but I found that marinating the chicken with pineapple juice enhances the sweetness while cutting down on the heat. This technique keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, ensuring every bite is packed with that delicious contrast.

I've paired these poppers with a cool dipping sauce made from yogurt and cilantro, which balances the heat from the jalapenos beautifully. The poppers bake to golden perfection, and the combination of crispy exterior with melt-in-your-mouth chicken really makes these a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s a family barbecue or a casual get-together, they disappear in no time!

        Why You'll Love These Poppers
        Unique flavor combination of sweet and spicy
Juicy chicken paired with fresh ingredients
Easy to make and perfect for sharing
Great for both casual gatherings and special occasions

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for these Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers is key to achieving a balanced flavor profile. The combination of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and spices not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize it. For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, but if time permits, aim for an hour or more in the refrigerator. This will enhance the flavors, allowing the sweetness of the pineapple and the heat of the jalapenos to penetrate each piece of chicken more effectively.

Consider using fresh pineapple to get the most vibrant flavor, as canned pineapple might deliver an overly sweet or syrupy taste that could overpower the dish. Additionally, the freshness of the jalapenos, chopped finely, ensures that every bite carries that delightful heat without being overwhelming. If you're sensitive to spice but still want the punch, try using fewer jalapenos or opt for a milder pepper, such as a Poblano.

Coating Techniques

When rolling the chicken poppers in breadcrumbs, ensure each piece is evenly coated for a crispy texture. I find that using panko breadcrumbs gives an exceptional crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, giving a lovely contrast to the tender chicken inside. If you prefer a healthier version or need a gluten-free option, substitute with crushed rice cereal or almond flour for the coating, ensuring they still adhere by misting with olive oil spray before baking.

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this ensures even cooking and browning. Leave some space between the poppers so they can crisp up nicely around all sides. If you run out of pan space, consider using multiple sheets and rotate them halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking. Look for them to turn golden brown and be completely cooked through, which should take about 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Serving Suggestions

While these poppers are delightful on their own, serving them with a dipping sauce elevates the experience even further. A tangy pineapple salsa or a cooling yogurt-based sauce, like tzatziki, can balance out the heat beautifully. For an extra kick, consider a spicy sriracha mayo that complements the jalapenos, or a sweet chili sauce for those who love a blend of sweet and spicy.

For gatherings, arrange the poppers on a colorful platter with garnishments like extra cilantro or green onions for a fresh touch. You can also serve these poppers over a bed of vibrant slaw made from shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a light vinaigrette. This not only adds texture but also introduces another layer of flavors that make the dish even more compelling.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start preparing the poppers:

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
2 jalapenos, seeded and minced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon pineapple juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
Olive oil spray

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

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

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, pineapple, jalapenos, green onions, cilantro, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. After marinating, use your hands to form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.

Coat and Bake

Roll each popper in breadcrumbs, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

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

These poppers are best served immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunchy texture, try double coating the poppers in breadcrumbs and baking them an extra 5 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain their crispness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes and avoid using the microwave, which can make the coating soggy. You can also freeze the poppers before baking if you want to prep ahead; just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

A great tip for enjoying these poppers at a later date is to make a double batch. When you bake them, keep some uncooked poppers on standby in the freezer. You’ll have a quick and tasty appetizer ready to impress unexpected guests or simply satisfy a snack craving without the extra prep time.

Variations to Explore

These Pineapple-Jalapeno Chicken Poppers can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. If you're a fan of different flavor profiles, consider adding diced red bell peppers for sweetness or even cheese, like cream cheese or pepper jack, to the mixture for a creamy texture inside. For a savory kick, incorporate diced bacon into the mixture for an extra layer of flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pineapple and the heat of the jalapenos.

Vegetarians can enjoy a similar treat by substituting diced chicken with cubed firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same flavorful mix. They will absorb the marinade just as well and provide a delightful alternative that is just as satisfying. Always remember to adjust cooking times based on the substitute used; for instance, tofu may require slightly less time to get crispy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute chicken with another protein?

Yes, you can use turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make these poppers spicier?

Leave the seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture.

→ Can I refrigerate the leftovers?

Yes, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these poppers?

A yogurt-based dipping sauce or a sweet chili sauce complements the flavors nicely.