Description
Love jalapeño poppers and creamy chicken dishes? Then you’ll fall head over heels for this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole! It’s a rich, cheesy, slightly spicy comfort food classic that brings all the flavor of your favorite appetizer in an easy, family-friendly casserole. Tender chicken, crispy toppings, and a creamy jalapeño-cheese sauce make this a weeknight winner.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken Base:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)
1½ cups plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2–3 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh lime juice (optional)
For the Topping:
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
¼ cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
For Garnish (Optional):
Sliced fresh jalapeños
Chopped cilantro or parsley
Drizzle of ranch dressing
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly grease a 9×13 casserole dish and set aside.
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If needed, cook and shred your chicken in advance or use a rotisserie chicken for ease.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Base
4. In a large bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, sour cream or yogurt, garlic, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
5. Stir in shredded chicken, jalapeños, cheddar, and mozzarella until fully combined.
6. Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish.
Step 3: Add the Topping
7. Sprinkle the top with extra shredded cheddar, crumbled turkey bacon, green onions, and crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs if using.
8. For more heat, add sliced fresh jalapeños on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
10. For a crispier top, broil the last 2–3 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
11. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes to set.
12. Garnish with cilantro or parsley, and drizzle with ranch if desired.
13. Serve hot with a side salad, steamed veggies, or rice.
Notes
Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds flavor.
Adjust the Heat – Remove seeds for mild flavor, or add extra jalapeños for a kick.
Make It Low-Carb – Skip the tortilla chip topping or use crushed pork rinds.
Double the Recipe – It freezes well and is great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American