Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dish perfect for low-carb enthusiasts. It combines tender chicken, jalapenos, and savory bacon in a rich, comforting bake. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s ideal for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 5 to 6 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Arrange the cubed chicken evenly in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish, leaving a little space between pieces.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, blend together the garlic powder, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the diced jalapenos over the cream cheese mixture, followed by an even layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the chopped bacon on top as a final garnish, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, keep some jalapeno seeds or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cream cheese mixture.
• Substitute the chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier casserole.
• Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Cook the bacon until extra crispy to add a delightful crunch on top.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if starting cold.

What can I use instead of bacon?

If you prefer not to use bacon, toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts like pecans can add a nice crunch. You can also omit it entirely for a lighter version.

Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 142 reviews

This Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy chicken dish perfect for low-carb and keto diets. It features tender chicken breasts baked in a rich mixture of cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic, jalapenos, and sharp cheddar cheese, topped with crispy bacon for extra flavor and crunch.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Keto

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

Spices and Dairy

• ½ tbsp garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Vegetables

• 5 to 6 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced

Meat

• 6 slices chopped bacon

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) and prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breasts evenly in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish, leaving slight spaces between the pieces to ensure even cooking.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, blend together the garlic powder, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken in the dish.
4. Add Jalapenos and Cheese: Sprinkle the diced, seeded jalapenos evenly over the sauced chicken, followed by an even layer of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
6. Add Bacon and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle the chopped bacon on top for a crispy, savory finish, and serve hot for a delicious ketogenic meal.

Notes

• Seed jalapenos carefully to control the heat level; leave some seeds in for extra spice if desired.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly with the heavy cream.
• You can substitute sharp cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist.
• Crisp the bacon ahead of time for better texture before sprinkling on top.
• This casserole reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Keto jalapeno popper casserole, low-carb chicken casserole, creamy chicken bake, keto dinner, jalapeno chicken recipe