Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and satisfying dish perfect for low-carb diets. Combining tender chicken with rich cream cheese and sharp cheddar, it’s a flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and bake.

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• ½ tbsp garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 5 to 6 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Arrange the cubed chicken in a single layer at the bottom of the casserole dish, leaving a little space between the pieces.
3. Step 3: In a bowl, blend together the garlic powder, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the diced jalapenos evenly over the cream cheese mixture. Then top it all with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
5. Step 5: Bake the casserole for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add cooked and crumbled bacon on top before baking.
• Use mild or extra-hot jalapenos depending on your spice preference.
• Swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a slightly different kick.
• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to mix easily with the heavy cream.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely before assembling the casserole.

How spicy is this casserole?

The heat level depends on the jalapenos used and whether you leave some seeds in. Removing all seeds reduces the spice, while including some can increase it.

Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 106 reviews

This Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy baked dish perfect for low-carb and keto diets. Tender chicken breasts are layered with a rich blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, spicy jalapenos, and sharp cheddar cheese, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that brings all the flavors of a jalapeno popper into a comforting casserole.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 to 45 minutes
• Total Time: 50 to 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb, Keto

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

Seasoning and Sauce

• ½ tbsp garlic powder
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 5 to 6 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced

Topping

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish by spraying it thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the chicken: Arrange the cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
3. Prepare the creamy sauce: In a bowl, blend together garlic powder, softened cream cheese, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken pieces.
4. Add jalapenos and cheese: Sprinkle the diced, seeded jalapeno peppers evenly over the creamy sauce layer, then top everything with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
5. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden.

Notes

• Remove seeds from jalapenos to control the heat level; leaving some seeds will make it spicier.
• Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for best keto-friendly results and creaminess.
• Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld.
• You can add cooked bacon bits on top before baking for extra flavor.

Keywords: Keto, Jalapeno Popper, Casserole, Low Carb, Chicken Casserole, Spicy, Cheesy