Name: Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Protein: 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded; Vegetables: 3-4 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat); Dairy: 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; ½ cup heavy cream; Seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp paprika; Salt & black pepper to taste; Other: 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 2 tbsp butter or olive oil; ¼ cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Short Description

Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that brings the irresistible taste of jalapeño poppers to a hearty, low-carb meal. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and just the right amount of spice, this easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Keto-friendly: Low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it ideal for a ketogenic diet.
Packed with flavor: A combination of spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and smoky bacon.
Easy to prepare: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients make it a hassle-free meal.
Family-friendly: Adjust the spice level to make it enjoyable for everyone.
Great for leftovers: Tastes just as delicious the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts or thighs
Jalapeños
Cream cheese
Cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Heavy cream
Cooked bacon
Green onions
Butter or olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.
Cook the chicken: If using raw chicken, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then shred or cube it.
Prepare the jalapeños: Slice the jalapeños, removing the seeds for less heat if desired.
Make the creamy sauce: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, heavy cream, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the cooked chicken evenly in the baking dish, followed by the creamy cheese mixture, then top with jalapeño slices and crumbled cooked bacon.
Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped green onions and let it cool slightly before serving.

Variations

Make it extra spicy: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for additional heat.
Use different cheeses: Swap in pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Low-dairy option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Vegetable boost: Add spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How spicy is this casserole?

The spice level depends on the jalapeños. Removing the seeds and membranes will reduce the heat, while keeping them will add more spice.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken makes this dish even quicker to prepare.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve it with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground or shredded turkey works just as well.

How do I make it more creamy?

Increase the cream cheese and heavy cream or add a little sour cream for extra richness.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours or until everything is heated through and the cheese is melted.

What other toppings can I add?

Try adding crushed pork rinds for a crunchy topping or diced tomatoes for freshness.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Conclusion

Keto Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a satisfying, low-carb meal. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and just the right amount of spice, it’s bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, keto-friendly dinner!

Print