Description
Spicy jalapeno popper chicken casserole delivers creamy comfort with zesty southwestern flair. Cheese, crispy bacon, and jalapeños create a bold meal home cooks will adore.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 pounds (907 grams) chicken breasts (shredded or diced)
- 8 ounces (227 grams) bacon (cooked and crumbled)
Cheese and Dairy:
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese
- 2 cups (226 grams) cheddar cheese (shredded)
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 4 jalapeños (fresh or pickled, sliced)
- 2 green onions (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 375F (190C) and coat a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Create a savory blend by thoroughly mixing shredded chicken with cream cheese, incorporating cheddar cheese, and seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Gently integrate sliced jalapenos and half of the crispy bacon pieces into the chicken mixture.
- Distribute the mixture uniformly across the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
- Generously sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon crumbles over the top of the casserole.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the surface turns golden and the edges become bubbly.
- Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a vibrant finish.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the melted cheese and crispy bacon to highlight the dish’s rich flavors.
Notes
- Choose mild jalapeños for a gentler heat level if you prefer less spiciness in the dish.
- Swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Consider using rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor complexity to the casserole.
- Prep jalapeños carefully by removing seeds and membranes to reduce intense heat while preserving pepper’s fresh taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg