If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and spicy dish that’s perfect for dinner (or meal prep), look no further than this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole! This recipe combines the rich, creamy elements of a traditional jalapeño popper with lean chicken, making it a deliciously satisfying low-carb and keto-friendly meal. It’s packed with cheese, a bit of heat from the jalapeños, and a creamy texture that will keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can have it ready in just under an hour.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, cooked and shredded)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 4-5 jalapeños (fresh, finely chopped or sliced, adjust to your heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If you haven’t already, cook the chicken breasts. You can either bake, grill, or pan-fry them. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the Casserole Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped jalapeños. If you like a little more heat, you can add extra jalapeños or include some of the seeds, but feel free to adjust to your spice preference.
- Fold in the shredded chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the chicken and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Optional: Top with additional shredded cheese for an extra cheesy layer.
- Bake:
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Optional: In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle cooked bacon bits on top of the casserole for added flavor and a little crunch.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Top with chopped green onions for a fresh, zesty garnish.
- Serve the casserole hot, and enjoy!
Tips:
- Spice Level: If you want the casserole to be milder, you can remove the seeds from the jalapeños before chopping them. If you like more heat, you can leave the seeds in or add extra jalapeños or even a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add-ins: For a more filling meal, consider adding in vegetables like diced bell peppers, spinach, or even cauliflower rice. You could also stir in a small amount of cooked quinoa or brown rice for added texture.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, bake it, allow it to cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Low-Carb: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it great for keto or low-carb diets. To make it even more keto-friendly, skip the mayonnaise and use extra sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Protein: ~30g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbs: ~4g
- Fiber: ~1g
- WW Points: 5 points (depends on the exact ingredients and servings)
This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a mouthwatering combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy flavors that is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and can be customized to suit your spice level. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just craving a flavorful, cheesy dinner, this casserole is a delicious option you’ll want to make again and again.
