Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the creamy goodness of jalapeño poppers and the heartiness of a chicken casserole! This Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds. With just 45 minutes from prep to table, you’ll wonder how something so delicious can be so simple. Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and discover the secret to making your meals unforgettable!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup jalapenos, diced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add diced jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the chicken mixture. Stir until all seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs to create a crispy topping. If desired, you can add a small amount of melted butter to help the breadcrumbs brown more effectively.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer, creating a uniform coating.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to set.
- Garnish with additional chopped jalapenos or fresh herbs like parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds a depth of flavor to your casserole.
- Adjust the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, feel free to reduce the amount of jalapeños or use milder varieties. Conversely, if you love heat, add extra jalapeños or even some diced green chilies.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, mixing in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on top. This will give you a beautifully golden crust!
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or additional jalapeños on top just before serving can add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
