Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole takes everything you love about classic jalapeño poppers and transforms it into a rich, comforting main dish. Creamy cheese, smoky bacon, tender chicken, and just the right amount of jalapeño heat come together in one bubbling, golden casserole.

The base is ultra-luxurious, made with cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise for maximum creaminess. Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack melt beautifully throughout, while bacon adds a savory crunch that balances the smooth texture.

Fresh jalapeño slices bake right on top, softening slightly while keeping their bright, spicy bite. A buttery cracker topping adds irresistible crunch, creating the perfect contrast to the creamy filling beneath.

This dish is ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day spreads. It’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients :

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 4–5 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2–3 jalapeños, sliced (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Instructions :

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheeses. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, followed by the sliced jalapeños and remaining bacon.
6. In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Variations :

• Substitute pepper jack for Monterey Jack for extra heat.
• Add diced green onions for fresh flavor.
• Mix in a handful of chopped spinach for added color and nutrition.

Tips :

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.
• Remove jalapeño seeds for milder flavor or leave them in for extra spice.
• Serve with tortilla chips, over rice, or alongside a crisp green salad for a complete meal.