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If you love spicy, cheesy, and creamy flavors, this Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is going to be your new favorite. Packed with the rich taste of chicken, the spicy kick of jalapeños, and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese, this casserole combines all the best elements of a jalapeño popper into a low-carb, keto-friendly dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress!
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Why You’ll Love Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole
This Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is everything you crave in a comfort food dish without the carbs. It’s creamy, cheesy, and spicy with tender chicken that soaks up all the delicious flavors. The combination of jalapeños and cheese gives you the same satisfaction of traditional jalapeño poppers, but with a keto twist. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
My Personal Experience
I’ve made this casserole multiple times, and every time it disappears faster than I can serve it. The creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños bring out such an amazing flavor that my family can’t stop asking for more. I was honestly surprised at how easy it was to prepare, especially considering how impressive it looks when served. If you’re looking for a dish that will make everyone at the table rave about it (keto or not), this one’s a winner.
Required Equipment
To make this Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:
- Large Casserole Dish: A sturdy, good-quality casserole dish is essential for evenly cooking your casserole and getting that golden cheesy top. I love using a glass dish for this recipe because it lets me keep an eye on the cooking process.
- Sharp Knife: You’ll want a sharp knife for slicing the jalapeños and chicken. A well-sharpened knife makes prep work much quicker and safer.
- Cutting Board: A large, sturdy cutting board will provide the perfect surface for chopping your ingredients. I recommend a wood or plastic cutting board to avoid cross-contamination.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized mixing bowl will be needed to combine all your ingredients before baking them together. It’s great for making sure everything is evenly coated.
- Baking Sheet: If you want to roast your chicken a bit before baking the casserole (optional), a baking sheet will come in handy.
Each of these pieces of equipment ensures the casserole turns out just right, so don’t skimp on quality! Trust me, having reliable tools in the kitchen makes cooking so much more enjoyable.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s everything you’ll need for this Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole, along with some handy substitutions:
- Chicken Breast (4-5 pieces): I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They’re lean and easy to cut into bite-sized pieces. You could substitute with thighs if you prefer dark meat for extra richness.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz): This gives the casserole its creamy base and that luscious texture. You can swap for full-fat ricotta or mascarpone cheese if you’re looking for a different flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1.5 cups): Cheddar provides that perfect melting texture. You can use mozzarella or even a blend of both cheeses for a unique twist.
- Jalapeños (3-4, depending on heat preference): These are the star of the dish, offering that signature spicy kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, you can remove the seeds or use less spicy peppers like Anaheim peppers.
- Bacon (4-5 slices, cooked and crumbled): Bacon adds a crispy, savory touch to the casserole. If you want a vegetarian version, you can skip this or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative.
- Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): This helps make the casserole creamy and smooth. You can swap this with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) and Onion Powder (1 tsp): These bring an extra layer of savory flavor to the casserole. Feel free to use fresh garlic or onion if you prefer.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the dish and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center (about 7-8 minutes per side). Allow them to cool before cutting them into bite-sized cubes.
Step 3: While the chicken is cooling, chop your jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat if preferred) and cook your bacon until crispy. Set them aside.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Step 5: Add the chicken cubes and chopped jalapeños to the mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with a bit more shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispy, golden top.
Step 8: Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for This Recipe
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The chicken should be juicy and tender, so be mindful not to overcook it.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you love spice, add extra jalapeños or even some hot sauce to the mix. For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use bell peppers.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use a blend of your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack would also work wonderfully.
Optional Additions
- Avocado: Add fresh, sliced avocado on top after baking for an extra creamy element.
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the casserole for a burst of freshness and color.
Serving Ideas
This casserole is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of sautéed spinach or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Storage Recommendation
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This casserole reheats beautifully in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prep the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Total Carbs: 6g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 30g
Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Large Casserole Dish
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 4-5 pieces
- Cream cheese: 8 oz
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1.5 cups
- Jalapeños: 3-4
- Bacon: 4-5 slices
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 7-8 minutes per side. Allow to cool before cutting into bite-sized cubes.
- While the chicken is cooling, chop jalapeños and cook bacon until crispy. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, shredded cheddar, and crumbled bacon. Mix until smooth.
- Add chicken cubes and chopped jalapeños, stirring to coat evenly.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish and top with additional cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden top.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
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