Description
This Cheesy Low Carb Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole combines the addictive flavors of a classic appetizer with a satisfying main course. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in rich cream cheese, layered with fresh jalapeño peppers, and topped with melted Cheddar for a spicy, savory kick. With its creamy, gooey texture and bold heat, this Keto-friendly dish is an easy way to spice up your dinner routine without the extra carbs.
Ingredients
The Base
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 3–4 breasts)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
The Toppings
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 pound fresh jalapeño peppers (approx. 5–6 peppers)
- 4 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 1 cup)
Instructions
Prep
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Season & Spread
Lay the chicken breasts flat in a 9×13-inch casserole dish in a single layer. Season evenly with the garlic powder. Spread the softened cream cheese over the top of the raw chicken breasts, covering them as evenly as possible. Tip: If the cream cheese is cold, microwave it for 15–20 seconds to make it spreadable.
Prep Peppers
Wash the jalapeños and remove the stems. Slice them into strips or rings. Heat Control: Remove the seeds and white membranes for a milder dish. Leave them in if you prefer a spicy kick. Wear gloves to protect your hands!
Layer
Arrange the jalapeño strips on top of the cream cheese layer. Sprinkle the grated sharp Cheddar cheese generously over the peppers.
Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes. Doneness Check: The cheese should be bubbly and browned, and the chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes (to help the cheese set), then serve warm.
Notes
Safety First: Jalapeño oils can burn skin and eyes. Wear gloves when slicing, or wash your hands thoroughly with dish soap immediately after handling.
Chicken Prep: If your chicken breasts are very thick, pound them to an even thickness or butterfly them. This ensures they cook through evenly without drying out the edges.
Bacon Upgrade: For the full “popper” experience, sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the top just before serving for a salty, smoky crunch.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire dish in the morning, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed (add 5–10 minutes to the cook time if baking from cold).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Keto
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Chicken Breast with Topping
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: jalapeno popper chicken, keto chicken casserole, low carb dinner recipes, spicy chicken bake, cream cheese chicken, easy weeknight meals, gluten free casserole