If you are looking to kick your appetizer game up a notch, the Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe is an absolute must-try. These vibrant, spicy jalapeños filled with creamy queso asadero and savory Mexican chicken sausage create a perfect balance of heat, flavor, and texture that will have everyone asking for more. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving a snack that’s bursting with bold flavors, this recipe promises a fun and satisfying experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one adds something special, whether it’s a flavor burst, a creamy texture, or a color pop that makes the dish irresistible.
- Jalapeño peppers: The star of the dish, offering the perfect amount of heat and a crisp bite after blanching.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the chicken sausage and add a smooth richness.
- Mexican chicken sausage: Packed with spices, this sausage adds a smoky, savory depth that complements the cheese perfectly.
- Queso Asadero cheese: A coarsely grated cheese that melts beautifully, bringing creamy gooeyness to the filling.
- Corn tortillas: Serve as a subtle, earthy base that lets the stuffed jalapeños shine.
- Chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a fresh, bright herbal note for garnish.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the layers of flavor and seasons the dish just right.
How to Make Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Jalapeños
Begin by boiling the jalapeños for about five minutes until their bright green color softens to a pale shade. This step is crucial because it takes the edge off their heat and makes them tender enough to stuff without losing their firm shape. After boiling, set them aside to cool, so they’re easier to handle for the next steps.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Sausage
While the jalapeños cool, heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Mexican chicken sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. You want it nicely browned and fragrant because this sausage gives the dish its hearty, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the cheese filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Jalapeños for Stuffing
Once cool, carefully slice small slits in each jalapeño and gently remove the seeds. This is where you control the spice level—remove all seeds for milder bites or leave a few in for an extra kick. Be patient here, as this step makes the difference between a deliciously spicy or overwhelmingly hot snack.
Step 4: Stuff and Broil
Now for the fun part: stuffing. Spoon the grated queso asadero into each jalapeño cavity, filling them generously. Top each pepper with the cooked chicken sausage, layering flavors and textures. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler for a quick 2 to 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts to a bubbly, golden perfection.
Step 5: Serve With Style
Serve your warm, melty cheese and chicken sausage stuffed jalapeños over fresh corn tortillas. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and a pinch of kosher salt to brighten and balance the bold flavors. This dish is best enjoyed immediately for the perfect melty, spicy experience.
How to Serve Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped cilantro is a game-changer here, lending a bright, herbal contrast to the creamy cheese and spicy sausage. You can also add a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish or a dollop of sour cream to soothe the spice if you prefer.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light and refreshing sides like a crisp cucumber salad or a tangy pico de gallo. If you want something heartier, try a simple Mexican rice or refried beans to round out the meal without overshadowing the stuffed jalapeños.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the stuffed jalapeños on a vibrant platter lined with corn tortillas, sprinkle extra cilantro on top, and serve with small bowls of guacamole and salsa for dipping. Alternatively, you can skewer them for easy handheld bites at a casual gathering or even slice them for topping tacos or nachos for added excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, making for quick and tasty snacks or a warm appetizer you can enjoy later.
Freezing
While these stuffed jalapeños taste best fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll maintain their flavor for up to one month. Just remember that texture might soften slightly after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop them under the broiler or in a hot oven for a few minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid using a microwave if you want to keep the peppers’ texture intact and the sausage flavorful and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Mexican chicken sausage adds a fantastic flavor, you can experiment with pork, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage to match your taste and dietary preferences.
How spicy are these stuffed jalapeños?
The heat level depends on how many seeds you leave in the peppers. Removing all seeds will result in a milder dish, while keeping some or all will pack a warmer punch. Blanching also reduces the initial intensity of the jalapeños.
Is Queso Asadero necessary, or can I substitute another cheese?
Queso Asadero melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor that’s perfect here. However, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a mild cheddar can be used as tasty alternatives with slightly different textures.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes! Swap out the chicken sausage for a plant-based sausage and use a dairy-free melting cheese option. Blanching and stuffing the jalapeños remain the same, delivering that satisfying bite with vegan-friendly ingredients.
What should I serve these stuffed jalapeños with for a full meal?
Pair the Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe with simple sides like cilantro lime rice, black beans, and a fresh salad for a complete and well-balanced meal that’s both colorful and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe is one of those dishes that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It combines bold flavors, creamy cheese, and a little spicy kick that will brighten up any occasion. I can’t recommend it enough for a quick snack, appetizer, or even party crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, these stuffed jalapeños might just become your new favorite go-to!
Print
Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 stuffed jalapeños per serving)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Cheese and Chicken Sausage Stuffed Jalapeños are a flavorful appetizer combining the smoky heat of jalapeños with creamy Mexican cheese and savory chicken sausage. Perfectly broiled for a melty finish, they make a delightful snack or party treat served over warm corn tortillas and garnished with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
Jalapeños
- 6–8 Jalapeño peppers
Meat and Cheese
- 5 oz Mexican chicken sausage
- 5 oz Queso Asadero cheese, coarsely grated
Additional Ingredients
- Olive oil (for cooking, about 1 tablespoon)
- 6–8 corn tortillas
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, about 2 tablespoons)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Boil Jalapeños: In a medium saucepan filled halfway with water, bring to a boil and cook the jalapeños for about 5 minutes until they turn pale green. Remove from water and let them cool completely to handle safely.
- Cook Chicken Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Mexican chicken sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare Jalapeños: Using a sharp knife, cut small slits in each cooled jalapeño pepper. Carefully remove the seeds and membranes to reduce the heat and create space for stuffing.
- Stuff Jalapeños: Fill each jalapeño with the coarsely grated Queso Asadero cheese, then top with the browned chicken sausage evenly distributed over the cheese.
- Broil Jalapeños: Place the stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet and position under the oven broiler. Broil for 2-5 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Arrange the broiled stuffed jalapeños over warm corn tortillas. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and sprinkle with kosher salt to taste. Serve immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- Boiling the jalapeños before stuffing helps mellow their heat and soften their texture.
- If you prefer spicier peppers, leave some seeds in, but be cautious.
- Queso Asadero cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a similar melt.
- Broiling times may vary depending on your oven; watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve with sour cream or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor if desired.
