Looking for a simple yet flavorful grilled chicken recipe? This juicy grilled chicken is made using the award-winning Firebug Grilling Sauce and the bold, smoky flavor of Cattleman’s Grill 8 Second Ride seasoning—our staff favorite! Using the wet-grill method, this recipe ensures tender, mouthwatering results every time. Perfect for backyard BBQs or quick weeknight dinners.
Atomic Chicken Recipe: Spicy Grilled Chicken Breast with Jalapeño Popper Topping
Tom Jackson
Rated 3.6 stars by 7 users
Category
Entree
Cuisine
American
Servings
6
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 30 minutes
Calories
400
If you're looking for a bold and flavorful grilled chicken recipe, Atomic Chicken is the ultimate spicy BBQ dish you need to try. This grilled chicken breast is packed with heat from jalapeños, smoky bacon, and a cheesy topping, making it perfect for game day, backyard cookouts, or when you’re craving something fiery and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Atomic Chicken Recipe
Big, bold flavor: Combines the richness of jalapeño poppers with the smoky char of grilled chicken.
Easy to make: Simple prep and grilling steps anyone can follow.
Perfect for spice lovers: A spicy chicken recipe that doesn’t hold back on the heat.
Ingredients
- 12 Chicken Thighs
-
Cattleman's Grill 8-Second Ride Carne Asada Seasoning
-
Firebug Grilling Sauce Hot BBQ Sauce
- Chicken Stock
-
8 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
-
1/2 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
-
1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
-
3 fresh jalapeños, diced
-
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Jalapeno Popper Topping
Directions
Make the Jalapeno Popper Topping
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cheddar, pepper jack, bacon, diced jalapeños, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until smooth and set aside.
Make the Chicken
- Preheat your grill to 400°F for direct heat grilling.
Lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with Cattleman's Grill 8-Second Ride.
- Let the chicken rest at room temperature while the grill heats.
- Place chicken breasts directly on the hot grill grates.
- Cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add a generous scoop of the jalapeño popper topping to each breast. Close the lid to let the topping melt.
Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve with your favorite BBQ sides or shred it for a spicy chicken sandwich or wrap.
Recipe Note
Tips for the Best Grilled Atomic Chicken
Control the heat: For less spice, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or substitute with poblano peppers.
Upgrade your grill: This recipe shines when cooked on a Yoder Smokers YS640s Pellet Grill or any quality pellet smoker.
Get creative: Try adding chopped green onions or hot sauce to the topping for even more kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reduce the spice in the jalapeño popper topping?
Absolutely. Remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use milder peppers like poblanos to dial down the heat.
What internal temperature should I aim for when grilling the chicken?
Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 160°F, then add the popper topping and finish to 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Can I prepare the jalapeño popper topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the topping ahead and refrigerate it—just add it to the chicken in the last few minutes of grilling so it melts perfectly.
What is the wet-grill method?
The wet-grill method involves seasoning the chicken, letting it rest while the grill heats, then cooking over direct heat with the topping added at the end for melty, smoky flavor.
Can I cook these indoors?
We rate these as a 4 out of 5. Great in the kitchen, better on the grill.
Nutrition
Nutrition
- Serving Size
- 4 oz
- per serving
- Calories
- 400
- Carbs
- 22 grams
- Protein
- 31 grams
- Fat
- 19 grams
- Sodium
- 1679 milligrams
