Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Chicken Poppers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken poppers bring together the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory flavors. The crunchy coating, paired with the tangy-sweet glaze, makes them irresistible and perfect for parties or a cozy night in. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Poppers:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1 cup buttermilk

• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Glaze:

• 1/2 cup pepper jelly

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• Sesame seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Poppers: Mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl. Dip the chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat them in the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.

2. Fry the Chicken Poppers: Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine pepper jelly, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.

4. Coat the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken poppers in the glaze until evenly coated.

5. Serve: Transfer to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 people

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to make them spicier or milder.

• Meat Alternatives: Use turkey or plant-based alternatives for a different take on this dish.

• Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the chicken poppers instead of frying them.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken poppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, then add fresh glaze if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, you can use canola, peanut, or avocado oil for frying.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Fry the chicken poppers in advance and reheat in the oven before serving, adding the glaze just before serving.

3. Can I freeze the chicken poppers?

Yes, freeze the fried chicken poppers for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven and then coat with glaze.

4. What dipping sauces go well with these?

Ranch, blue cheese, or a tangy mustard sauce pairs wonderfully with these chicken poppers.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Chicken Poppers are the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether served as an appetizer at your next party or as a flavorful snack, these poppers are sure to impress. With their crispy exterior, tender meat, and irresistible glaze, they will quickly become a favorite!

Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Chicken Poppers

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• Author: Chef Sara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4-6 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Chicken Poppers are a mouthwatering appetizer that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy pepper jelly glaze. Coated in a golden, crunchy crust and topped with a tangy glaze, these poppers bring the perfect balance of heat and sweetness to any occasion. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, they’re perfect for parties, game nights, or family gatherings!

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Poppers:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1 cup buttermilk

Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Nashville Hot Pepper Jelly Glaze:

1/2 cup pepper jelly

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp salt

For the Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped

Sesame seeds

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Poppers:

   • In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

   • Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.

2. Fry the Chicken Poppers:

   • Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. Make the Glaze:

   • In a small saucepan, combine pepper jelly, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and salt.

   • Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.

4. Coat the Chicken:

   • Toss the fried chicken poppers in the glaze until evenly coated.

5. Serve:

   • Transfer to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.

Meat Alternatives: Try turkey or plant-based alternatives for a unique variation.

Baking Option: Bake chicken poppers for a healthier version by coating them with the flour mixture and baking at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American