This delightful and flavorful Creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole is a perfect family dinner that brings together the beloved flavors of jalapeño poppers into a hearty, satisfying meal. This dish is loaded with tender chicken, fresh cauliflower, and a rich, cheesy sauce, all topped with crispy bacon. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or looking for a comforting dinner, this casserole has got you covered.

Ingredients needed

Fresh Cauliflower

Fresh cauliflower is the base of this dish, providing a nutritious and low-carb alternative to traditional pasta. It’s best to use fresh cauliflower, chopped into small, macaroni-sized pieces to mimic the texture of pasta.

Cooked Chicken

Using pre-cooked chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe. You can prepare shredded chicken ahead of time, perhaps by using a crockpot or purchasing a rotisserie chicken from the store.

Jalapeños

Jalapeños add the signature spice to this dish. Adjust the heat level by removing or keeping the seeds and membranes. For a milder flavor, deseed the peppers; for more heat, include the seeds and even add a touch of cayenne pepper.

Cheese Mix

This casserole is rich and cheesy, featuring a creamy mixture made from cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Shredded sharp cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness on top.

Bacon

Crispy, fried bacon crumbles give this casserole a delightful crunch and a smoky flavor that complements the spiciness of the jalapeños and the richness of the cheese.

Why We Love This Recipe

Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of jalapeños and adding more or less cayenne pepper. It’s also easy to make this dish milder for those who prefer less heat.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole is an excellent option for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers and reheat throughout the week for quick, delicious lunches or dinners.

Family Favorite

Inspired by the flavors of jalapeño popper dip, this casserole transforms those flavors into a full, hearty meal that the whole family will love.

How to Make Creamy Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Preparing the Cauliflower

Start by chopping a medium head of cauliflower into small, macaroni-sized pieces. You can also rice the cauliflower if you prefer, although it may result in a slightly mushier texture. Boil the cauliflower pieces in salted water for about 4 minutes until they are just tender. Drain well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.

Making the Jalapeño Cream Cheese Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Dice the jalapeños and add them to the mixture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, creamy sauce.

Assembling the Casserole

Add the cooked chicken to the bowl with the cauliflower. Pour the jalapeño cream cheese sauce over the chicken and cauliflower, stirring until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a prepared 9×9-inch baking dish.

Topping and Baking

Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Crumble crispy fried bacon over the cheese layer. Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, perhaps drizzled with a keto-friendly ranch dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you store this jalapeño popper casserole?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing them. For an even milder version, you can use jarred tamed jalapeños.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While sharp cheddar is traditional and flavorful, other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can also work well.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, this casserole is low in carbs and high in fat, making it a great option for those following a ketogenic diet.

Tips and Notes

Adjusting Spice Levels: For a less spicy casserole, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For extra heat, leave them in and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Cauliflower Texture: For a pasta-like texture, chop the cauliflower into small pieces by hand. Cauliflower rice can be used but may result in a softer texture.

Bacon Tips: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it over the casserole. This adds a wonderful crunch and smoky flavor.