Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole
A creamy and cheesy casserole combining the flavors of jalapeno poppers with shredded chicken, perfect for low-carb diets and family gatherings.
A Flavorful Twist on Comfort Food
If you’re searching for a dish that combines the comforting aspects of a warm casserole with a spicy kick, you’re in the right place. This Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole is not just another weeknight dinner; it’s a decadently cheesy, creamy delight that makes your taste buds sing. Perfect for family gatherings or a satisfying meal after a long day, this dish marries bold flavors with a low-carb appeal.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes this casserole a must-try? For one, it’s incredibly simple to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just want a cheesy, filling dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and can be made ahead of time, making it great for meal prepping.
This casserole is ideal for those busy weeknights or even for a cozy family brunch. The richness of the cheese combined with the crispy turkey bacon and spicy jalapenos delivers a flavor punch that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Step-by-step overview
Making Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole is straightforward. You’ll start by creating a creamy base using cream cheese, sour cream, and seasonings. Then, you fold in shredded chicken and half of the jalapeños. This mixture is spread into a greased baking dish, topped with cheddar cheese, and garnished with the remaining jalapeños and turkey bacon. A quick bake later, and you’re ready to serve!
Gather these items
To create this delicious dish, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 5 large jalapenos, seeded and diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
Feel free to adjust some ingredients based on your dietary preferences. For instance, Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a lighter option.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until you have a smooth emulsion.
- Gently fold in the shredded chicken and half of the diced jalapeños until everything is evenly combined.
- Transfer this creamy chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, creating a delicious cheesy layer.
- Garnish with the remaining diced jalapeños and crumbled turkey bacon for added flavor.
- Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and tinged with golden brown edges, and the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set before serving.
Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole
- Prep
- 20 MIN
- Cook
- 25 MIN
- Total
- 45 MIN
- Serves
- 8
01Ingredients
Main Ingredients
02Method
- Preparation
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0 OF 8 DONE03Recipe notes
- 01Serving options include pairing with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables. For lower carbs, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
04Nutrition
Per serving- Calories
- 485
- Protein
- 48G
- Net carbs
- 5G
- Fat
- 31G
- Fiber
- 1G
Net carbs are total carbs minus fiber. Numbers are estimates from the ingredients listed.
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Best ways to enjoy it
Serving this casserole is just as fun as making it! You can enjoy it straight from the baking dish, allowing everyone to scoop their portions. Pair it with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast, or serve it alongside steamed vegetables. For those looking to minimize carbs further, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How to store & freeze
Leftovers? No worries! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until it reaches 165°F. If you want to enjoy this dish later, it freezes well! Just ensure it’s completely cooled, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat until it reaches 165°F.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try substituting the sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick, or stir in a spoonful of chopped pickled jalapeños for extra tang.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great for saving time and adds a delicious flavor.
What if I want to make this dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy products with dairy-free alternatives, such as using cashew cream in place of cream cheese and coconut cream instead of sour cream.
How long does this casserole take to prepare?
The prep time is about 15-20 minutes, and another 20-25 minutes in the oven, so you can have it on the table in about 45 minutes.
Conclusion
This Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that packs flavor and satisfaction into a low-carb meal. Packed with protein and rich in taste, it’s perfect for any occasion. For more ideas, check out my Easy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad. Enjoy the delicious comfort of this casserole again and again!
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