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!
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
Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken Poppers:
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In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
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Dip chicken pieces into buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture. Shake off excess flour.
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Fry the Chicken Poppers:
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Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
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Make the Glaze:
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In a small saucepan, combine pepper jelly, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and salt.
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Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the glaze is smooth.
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Coat the Chicken:
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Toss the fried chicken poppers in the glaze until evenly coated.
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Serve:
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Transfer to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
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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
