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Delicious jalapeno popper chicken salad with creamy dressing and spicy jalapenos

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad

A creamy and spicy chicken salad that combines shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh jalapenos for a delightful twist on classic flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Salad, Side
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs cooked chicken breasts (cooled and finely shredded)
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon (cooked into crispy dark brown crumbles)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full fat preferred)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 medium fresh green jalapenos (3 diced for salad, 1 thinly sliced for garnish)
  • 1.5 cups orange cheddar cheese (finely shredded, divided)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
  2. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
  3. Next, fold in the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well coated.
  4. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as desired.
  5. Transfer the salad to a serving dish and top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the sliced jalapeno for garnish.

Notes

For extra flavor, use smoked bacon instead of regular. You can adjust the spice level by using fewer jalapenos or opting for milder peppers. Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.