Description

This Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy low-carb dish perfect for a comforting meal or party appetizer. Combining tender shredded chicken, jalapeños, cream cheese, cheddar, Parmesan, and crispy bacon, this casserole offers bold flavors with a satisfying texture. It’s quick to prepare and bakes to golden, bubbly perfection for a delicious keto-friendly option.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cooked and shredded (or ground chicken)
6-8 jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat, or leave seeds for extra spice)
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6-8 strips)
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cheese & Cream

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mayonnaise

Seasonings

1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the casserole mixture.
Prepare the chicken base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated and creamy.
Add cheeses and bacon: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sliced jalapeños, and cooked crumbled bacon into the chicken mixture evenly to distribute flavors and textures.
Transfer to baking dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×9-inch casserole dish or similar size baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.
Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley if desired before serving warm.

Notes

For less heat, remove jalapeño seeds before slicing; for more spice, leave some seeds in.
You can use ground chicken instead of shredded chicken for a different texture.
Make sure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly with other ingredients.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Serving with a side of fresh greens or cauliflower rice keeps the meal keto-friendly.