- Prepare the Smoker:
- Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C). Use wood chips or chunks of your choice for smoking flavor (hickory, applewood, or mesquite work well).
- Prepare Chicken:
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.
- Make Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble Chicken Bombs:
- Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture onto each flattened chicken breast.
- Roll and Wrap:
- Roll up each chicken breast tightly, enclosing the filling inside. Wrap 2 slices of bacon around each rolled chicken breast, securing with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the bacon in place.
- Season:
- Optionally, sprinkle your favorite BBQ rub or seasoning over the bacon-wrapped chicken bombs for extra flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken Bombs:
- Place the prepared chicken bombs directly on the smoker rack or on a wire rack placed inside the smoker. Smoke at 275°F (135°C) for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove the smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
- Serve:
- Slice the smoked chicken bombs and serve hot as a main dish. They pair well with a side of coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Perfect Smoked Chicken Bombs:
- Handling Jalapeños: Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation, especially if sensitive to spicy peppers.
- Bacon Wrapping: Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the chicken to prevent it from unraveling during smoking.
- Smoking Time: Smoking times can vary based on your smoker and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
Variations to Try:
- Cream Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cream cheese, such as garlic and herb or jalapeño-flavored, for added variety.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeños used to control the heat level of the chicken bombs.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs with a side of ranch dressing or a creamy dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Conclusion:
These Smoked Jalapeño Popper Chicken Bombs are a fantastic dish for any barbecue or gathering, combining the smoky flavors of bacon with creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious recipe with friends and family!