Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Copycat Recipe

These Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Copycat Recipe are crispy on the outside and gooey, cheesy on the inside. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they’re easy to make at home and full of flavor.

If you love Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites, you’ll be thrilled to know that you can make them at home!

These golden, crispy bites are stuffed with creamy cheese and fresh jalapeños, delivering the perfect mix of spice and gooey goodness.

They’re easy to prepare, perfect for parties, and way more satisfying than store-bought frozen versions. In this recipe, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

• Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside – Every bite has the perfect crunch and creamy center.
• Customizable spice level – Add more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Easy to make at home – No need for complicated equipment.
• Perfect for entertaining – Serve as appetizers or snacks for any occasion.
• Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy bites.

Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Ingredients

• Jalapeños, diced – Fresh jalapeños, seeds removed for mild heat.
• Cream cheese – Soft, creamy cheese for smooth, rich filling.
• Cheddar cheese, shredded – Sharp cheddar adds melty, cheesy, flavorful goodness.
• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded – Mild, creamy cheese for a smooth texture.
• Garlic powder – Adds a savory, aromatic flavor boost.
• Onion powder – Provides subtle, sweet, and savory depth.
• All-purpose flour – Used to coat bites for crispiness.
• Eggs – Beaten eggs bind coating to each bite.
• Breadcrumbs – Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy golden exterior.
• Vegetable oil – For frying bites until golden brown.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor, balancing the dish.
• Black pepper – Adds subtle heat and savory seasoning.

How To Make Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Copycat Recipe

Step One: In a medium bowl, combine diced jalapeños, cream cheese, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Step Two: Scoop small portions of the cheese mixture and form them into bite-sized balls.

Step Three: Set up three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each cheese ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Step Four: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated bites into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt and serve warm.

Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Copycat Recipe Tips

• Keep cheese cold before shaping: Chilled cheese mixture is easier to form into uniform balls.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: They create an extra crispy coating for a perfect crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
• Adjust jalapeño heat: Remove seeds for milder bites or keep them for extra spice.
• Serve immediately: Cheese bites are best enjoyed warm, straight from the fryer.
• Try baking for a lighter version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing: Store leftover jalapeño cheese bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded cheese bites on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen in hot oil, adding a minute or two to the frying time.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover fried bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy exterior.

Chili’s Jalapeño Cheese Bites Copycat Recipe Faqs

Can I make these bites ahead of time? Yes! You can shape and bread the bites, then freeze them before frying. Cook directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the frying time.

Can I bake them instead of frying? Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and crispy for a lighter version.

How can I adjust the spice level? Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños for mild heat, or leave them in for a spicier bite.

What dipping sauces go best with these bites? Ranch, spicy mayo, or a creamy chipotle sauce all pair perfectly with the cheesy bites.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to mix in other melty cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda to suit your taste.

Are these bites gluten-free? Not as written, but you can substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.

More Copycat Chilis Recipes

• Copycat Chili’s Steak Fajitas Recipe
• Copycat Steak ‘n Shake Chili
• Chili’s Bacon Ranch Chicken Quesadillas
• Chili’s Santa Fe Chicken Salad
• Chili’s Roasted Street Corn
• Copycat Chili’s Black Beans
• Copycat Chili’s Texas Cheese Fries

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