Delicious Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Delicious Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad combines creamy, spicy, and savory flavors for a crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect as a dip, sandwich filling, or a light meal, it brings together shredded chicken, jalapeños, and cheesy goodness in one easy recipe.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened before mixing)
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (optional if using more cream cheese)
• 2 pieces Fresh Jalapeños (remove seeds for less heat)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or any preferred cheese variety)
• 4 slices Bacon (can use turkey bacon or omit)
• 2 tablespoons Green Onions (chives can be used as an alternative)
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro (omit if not preferred)
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth.
2. Step 2: Gently fold in the shredded chicken until well-coated.
3. Step 3: Mix in the chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as necessary.
5. Step 5: Scoop the salad into a serving bowl, topping with extra cheese and cooked bacon pieces.
6. Step 6: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder salad, remove all seeds from the jalapeños or substitute with a milder pepper like poblano.
• Use smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese for an extra flavor twist.
• Omit mayonnaise for a thicker, creamier texture using only cream cheese.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Serve with tortilla chips, on toasted bread, or in lettuce wraps for different presentation options.

Storage

Store the jalapeño popper chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, stir well and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for best texture. It can be served cold or at room temperature but is not recommended for freezing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, preparing the salad a few hours ahead or even the day before helps the flavors blend nicely. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of bacon?

You can use turkey bacon for a leaner option, or omit bacon entirely if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly version. Adding smoked paprika may provide a smoky flavor without the bacon.

Delicious Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 89 reviews

A creamy and flavorful Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and spicy jalapeños, perfect as a snack or light meal. This no-cook recipe incorporates crispy bacon and fresh herbs for an elevated twist on a classic popper flavor, ready in under 15 minutes with a chilling period.

• Author: Naya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (mainly for cooking bacon if not pre-cooked)
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Dairy

• 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (rotisserie recommended)
• 8 oz Cream Cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (optional if using more cream cheese)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or preferred cheese)

Vegetables and Herbs

• 2 pieces Fresh Jalapeños, seeds removed for less heat
• 2 tablespoons Green Onions (or chives)
• 2 tablespoons Cilantro (optional)

Meat

• 4 slices Bacon (can substitute turkey bacon or omit)

Spices

• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Mixing Base: In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise together until they form a smooth and creamy mixture, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. Add the Chicken: Gently fold in the shredded cooked chicken, mixing just enough to coat the chicken evenly without breaking it down too much.
3. Incorporate Vegetables and Cheese: Stir in the chopped jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined, balancing the flavors throughout the mixture.
4. Adjust Seasonings: Taste your mixture and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed to suit your preference for heat and flavor.
5. Top and Chill: Transfer the salad to a serving bowl, topping it with additional cheddar cheese and the cooked bacon pieces.
6. Refrigerate: Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to set before serving.

Notes

• For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños completely.
• Can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit for a lighter salad.
• Chilling is essential for improved flavor and texture; do not skip.
• This salad can be served as a dip with crackers or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Use rotisserie chicken for easy preparation and enhanced flavor.

Keywords: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad, creamy chicken salad, spicy chicken salad, jalapeño chicken, bacon chicken salad