Go Back
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty casserole. Among the myriad of options out there, the Zesty Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole stands out as a crowd-pleaser that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a kick of spice. This dish is not just about filling your stomach; it’s about tantalizing your taste buds with every bite.

Zesty Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole

Discover the delicious Zesty Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole, a comforting dish that's perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. This crowd-pleaser combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and the spicy kick of jalapeños, topped with a crunchy panko layer. Easy to make and customizable for spice levels, it's great for all palates. Serve it hot with a side salad or cornbread for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Get ready to impress!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 cups cooked, shredded chicken

1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, adjust based on your heat level preference)

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for an extra crunchy texture)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: additional slices of fresh jalapeños for topping

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s ready for baking.

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, diced jalapeños, minced garlic, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy.

      Transfer to a Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil, then evenly spread the chicken mixture into the bottom of the dish.

        Add the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with the panko breadcrumbs. Mix well, then sprinkle this cheesy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken layer.

          Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. It’s done when the cheese is bubbly and the top has turned a beautiful, golden brown.

            Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes to set. Then, sprinkle with the chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh touch, and add optional slices of fresh jalapeños on top to amp up the spice!

              Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful main dish. This flavorful casserole pairs wonderfully with a refreshing salad or some crusty bread for a deliciously balanced meal.

                Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6 serving