This Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad packs a punch with its spicy jalapenos, tender chicken, and creamy dressing. It’s full of flavor and super simple to whip up!
I love serving it on toast or in lettuce wraps for a fun twist. Just be careful—once you take a bite, you might want to keep going back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. However, you can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt. You can blend it with a bit of softened butter for a creamier texture.
Jalapenos: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you want a milder version, consider using bell peppers instead. For extra heat, you can keep some seeds in!
Bacon: While I love crispy bacon for crunch, turkey bacon is a great substitute. You could also leave it out for a lighter salad or use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor instead of actual bacon.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Creamy and Flavorful?
Mixing the cream cheese and mayonnaise well is key to a creamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Let your cream cheese soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to mix.
- Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend the cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth—this prevents lumps.
- Combine everything gently to avoid breaking down the chicken too much. You want nice chunks!
Lastly, don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning! A pinch of extra salt or pepper can elevate the flavors.
Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend)
- 2-3 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 3 green onions, sliced (both white and green parts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can enjoy it right away, but letting it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld even better. Perfect for quick lunches or a snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a whisk or spatula to mix them together until smooth and creamy. This is the base of your salad!
2. Add in the Chicken and Flavor:
Now, add your shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, crumbled bacon (you can set aside some for topping), and sliced green onions into the bowl. This is where all the delightful flavors come together!
3. Combine Everything:
Gently stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful to mix without breaking up the chicken too much—you want nice, tender chunks in your salad.
4. Season to Perfection:
Now it’s time to taste! Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference. Don’t be shy—these little additions make a big difference!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Transfer your chicken salad to a serving dish. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions and crumbled bacon on top for a beautiful presentation. It’s ready to be enjoyed!
6. Enjoy Your Salad:
This chicken salad is fantastic served chilled with crackers, on toasted bread, in sandwich wraps, or even as a healthy filling for lettuce wraps. Whatever your choice, get ready for a delicious flavor explosion!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad!
FAQ for Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works great. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will actually improve as they meld! Just give it a stir before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it becomes a bit thick after chilling, you can stir in a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to bring back creaminess.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! You can omit the jalapenos entirely or substitute them with diced bell peppers for a milder flavor. You’ll still get a delicious and creamy chicken salad without the heat!
