Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

Craving something creamy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible? This Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad is a game-changer! Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and a rich, creamy dressing, it’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or just as is. If you’re a fan of jalapeño poppers, you’ll fall in love with this easy, flavorful salad!

When my husband first tried this Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad, he couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so amazing. We had a little picnic in the backyard, and he kept going back for more, claiming, “It’s like my favorite appetizer turned into the perfect lunch!” Even our little one, who’s usually wary of anything spicy, couldn’t resist the creamy, flavorful bites (with a bit less jalapeño in her portion, of course). Now, it’s become our go-to for quick lunches and family gatherings!

Why You’ll Love Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

•Packed with Flavor: The combination of spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing is mouthwatering.

•Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or on its own as a low-carb meal.

•Easy to Make: Comes together quickly with simple ingredients.

•Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep or a quick grab-and-go lunch.

Ingredients Notes for Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

•Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs.

•Jalapeños: Adjust the amount to your spice preference. Remove seeds for less heat or leave them in for a spicy kick.

•Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the jalapeños.

•Cheese: A mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar gives that classic jalapeño popper flavor.

Recipe Steps

1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.

2. Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix until smooth.

3. Combine Ingredients: Add 3 cups of shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 2-3 diced jalapeños (adjust to your heat preference) to the bowl. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy dressing.

4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on bread, in lettuce wraps, or with crackers.

Storage Options

•Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

•Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variations & Substitutions

•Lower Carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or on a bed of greens for a low-carb meal.

•Add Veggies: Mix in diced bell peppers or chopped green onions for added crunch.

•Make It Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or use more jalapeños with the seeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free?

A: Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese.

Q: How do I reduce the spice level?

A: Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or use milder peppers.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?

A: Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, but freshly shredded chicken tastes best.

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

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Course: Main Course, Salad

Kitchen: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• ▢ 1 cup cream cheese softened
• ▢ 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• ▢ 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños chopped (adjust to taste)
• ▢ 1/4 cup green onions sliced
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ Salt and black pepper to taste
• ▢ Optional: 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips for crunch

Instructions

• Prepare the Chicken: If not using rotisserie chicken, cook chicken breast in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes). Let cool, then shred or dice.
• Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, sliced green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and combined.
• Add Chicken: Gently fold in the cooked chicken until well coated with the creamy mixture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more jalapeños, salt, or pepper as desired.
• Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. You can enjoy it on its own, on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or as a filling for sandwiches.
• Optional Crunch: If desired, top with crushed tortilla chips just before serving for added texture.