Creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the creamy richness of a jalapeño popper dip with tender chicken. It’s the perfect balance of heat and creamy goodness, making it an ideal dish for a weeknight dinner or a gathering. With the perfect amount of spice, cheesy goodness, and a crunchy topping, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Sour cream
Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Salt and pepper
Breadcrumbs
Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks.
5. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and diced jalapeños.
6. Stir in the shredded chicken, then season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and drizzle with olive oil to help them brown.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

• Use a rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative.
• Add bacon bits for extra flavor and crunch.
• If you prefer less spice, omit the jalapeños or reduce the amount.
• Try adding a layer of crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunchy topping.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella or cheddar with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.

Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your preference.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.

Do I have to use chicken breasts?
No, you can use chicken thighs or even ground chicken for a different texture.

Conclusion

Creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the perfect amount of spice. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or at a gathering, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The balance of flavors and textures, from the creamy base to the crispy topping, will leave everyone coming back for more.

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