Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad – Craving a kick? Try this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad! We’ve infused all the delicious flavors of jalapeno poppers – creamy cheese, savory bacon, and of course, fiery jalapenos – into a delightful chicken salad. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as an appetizer dip!
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad: A Spicy Twist on a Classic
Simple Yet Flavorful
The beauty of this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad lies in its simplicity. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dish. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Creamy Dressing: A blend of cream cheese and mayonnaise creates a luxuriously smooth base for the salad.
- Spicy Kick: Jalapenos are the star of the show! You can adjust the heat level to your preference by using fresh, pickled, or roasted jalapenos, and how much you include.
- Loaded with Flavor: Crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of red onion add another layer of deliciousness to every bite.
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8
This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover cooked chicken. If you don’t have any on hand, no problem! Poach some chicken breasts or thighs for 10-15 minutes in boiling water, shred them with two forks, and you’re good to go.
Ingredients:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or sour cream)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 jalapeno, diced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- ¼ cup red onion, diced (or green onion, sliced)
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Mix the cream cheese, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add the chicken, jalapeno, bacon (if using), onion, and cheddar cheese to the dressing. Stir gently to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips and Tricks:
- Spice Level: Want it extra fiery? Don’t remove the seeds from the jalapeno!
- Pickled Jalapenos: Using pickled jalapenos adds a tangy flavor and reduces the heat slightly. You can also add a tablespoon of the pickling juice to the dressing for an extra kick.
- Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad on its own, or get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Stuffed into pita bread or tortillas
- Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
- Spread on crackers as an appetizer dip
- Served on a bed of greens for a light and healthy salad
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 389
- Fat: 34g (Saturated 10g, Trans 0.1g)
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 326mg
- Carbs: 1g (Fiber 0.1g, Sugars 0.8g)
- Protein: 17g
Enjoy this delicious and easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad!
