Description
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavor, this Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole brings together everything you love about the classic appetizer—in a hearty, satisfying bake. Tender shredded chicken, smoky bacon, spicy jalapenos, and melty cheese come together in a luscious cream cheese base, then topped with crispy breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch. It’s comfort food with a spicy kick that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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Ingredients
For the Casserole:
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup pickled jalapeno slices (drained and chopped)
4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 green onions, thinly sliced
For the Topping:
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped jalapeno (optional for extra spice)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese and sour cream until smooth
Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Mix in shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and chopped jalapenos
Fold in the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and green onions until well combined
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish
Smooth the top with a spatula
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and extra jalapeno if using
Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving
Top with extra sliced green onions or jalapenos for a fresh finish
Notes
Use Room Temp Cream Cheese – It blends more easily for a smooth texture
Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut – Saves time and adds flavor
Adjust Heat – Use more or fewer jalapenos, or swap pickled for fresh
Get the Perfect Crunch – Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for an ultra-crispy topping
Make It Low Carb – Skip the breadcrumb topping or use crushed pork rinds instead
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American