There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of turning a successful hunt into a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’ve spent the morning in the field for dove season or chasing quail in the brush, this bacon-wrapped jalapeño cream cheese dove recipe is a Texas classic — smoky, savory, and just the right amount of spicy.
Perfect for backyard grilling or campfire cooking, this recipe brings out the best in your harvest and makes every bite worth the wait.
Ingredients
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12 dove breasts (or quail breasts if that’s what you’ve got)
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6 fresh jalapeños, sliced into thin strips (remove seeds for less heat)
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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12 slices thin-cut bacon (half slices for smaller birds)
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Toothpicks or skewers
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Optional: barbecue sauce or honey for a glaze
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Seasoning: salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder (to taste)
Instructions
1. Prep the Birds
Rinse and pat the dove breasts dry, then lightly season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Stuff with Flavor
Cut a small slit in each breast to create a pocket. Fill with about a teaspoon of cream cheese and a thin slice of jalapeño for that perfect creamy-spicy bite.
3. Wrap in Bacon
Wrap each breast in half a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick or skewer to hold everything together.
4. Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F). Place the wrapped dove directly on the grill and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Optional Glaze
During the last few minutes of grilling, brush on a light layer of barbecue sauce or honey for a sweet, sticky finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the toothpicks, plate them up, and get ready for compliments. These pair perfectly with ranch-style beans, coleslaw, or grilled corn for a true Texas feast.
Pro Tips
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For kids or those who don’t like spice: Swap jalapeños for mini sweet peppers.
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Meal prep friendly: Assemble the birds ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill.
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Boost the flavor: Add a touch of smoke with mesquite or hickory wood chips for that classic Texas kick.
Celebrate the Hunt, Celebrate the Land
For us at Capitol Ranch Real Estate, recipes like this are about more than just great food — they’re about celebrating a lifestyle. It’s the time in the field, the laughs around the grill, and the joy of sharing something truly Texas with family and friends.
So fire up the grill, gather your crew, and enjoy the rewards of your hard work in the field.
Check out our story with the Murski Family – Dove Season in Texas: Passing Down a Timeless Tradition
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