Picture this: a chilly evening, the kind where the air feels like it’s giving you a gentle hug, and all you crave is something warm and cheesy to dive into. That’s where this Easy Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole comes into play.
You know those jalapeno poppers everyone scrambles for at a party? Imagine that same irresistible flavor but in a hearty, comforting casserole. It’s like a fiesta on your tastebuds with every bite—spicy, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a Monday, and, well, you know how Mondays are. But this casserole—oh, this casserole—turned everything around. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget the week has only just begun and feel like the weekend is just around the corner.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who just loves to eat, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds. . .
or thirds. Grab your apron and let’s dive in—not literally, of course!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the baking dish and season them with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, milk or cream, and garlic powder. If needed, microwave the mixture briefly to soften it and make it easier to mix. Spread this cream cheese mixture over the chicken evenly.
- Scatter the diced jalapeno peppers on top of the cream cheese layer. Follow this by sprinkling the crumbled cooked bacon evenly over the dish.
- Top the entire dish with shredded cheddar cheese. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
- For the last 5 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the cheese to melt and become slightly golden. Once fully cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest briefly before serving.
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (slice breasts in half lengthwise if thick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 to 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2094kcal | Protein: 168g | Fat: 156g | Carbohydrates: N/A | Fiber: N/A | Sugars: N/A | Sodium: N/A
FAQ
- How spicy is Jalapeno Popper Chicken?
- While you might expect it to be very spicy, cooking jalapenos actually reduces their heat. Occasionally, you might encounter a particularly spicy pepper, but generally, the dish is mild.
- Can I use canned jalapenos instead of fresh ones?
- Absolutely! A 4-ounce can of diced jalapenos is a good substitute for fresh jalapenos in this recipe.
- How do I prepare Jalapeno Popper Chicken?
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Layer seasoned chicken in the dish. Mix cream cheese, milk or cream, and garlic powder, then spread over the chicken. Add jalapenos, bacon, and cheese on top. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Is Jalapeno Popper Chicken suitable for a Keto diet?
- Yes, this dish is low-carb and Keto-friendly, making it a great option for those following a ketogenic diet.
- What can I serve with Jalapeno Popper Chicken?
- This dish can be paired with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
Tips
- To reduce the spice level, consider removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before dicing them, as these parts contain most of the heat.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked bacon to speed up the preparation process. You can crumble it on top right before baking.
- For a creamier texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it with milk or cream and garlic powder. If needed, briefly microwave it to soften.
- To achieve a nicely melted cheese topping, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
Equipment
- 9×13 Baking Dish
- Microwave (if you need to soften the cream cheese quickly)
