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Delicious jalapeno popper chicken salad topped with crispy bacon and cheese

Ultimate Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad

A delicious fusion of jalapeno poppers and chicken salad, combining creamy and spicy flavors, perfect for any meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
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 cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or fork to blend until smooth.
  2. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine.
  3. Fold in the shredded chicken, crispy bacon, diced jalapenos, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more jalapenos!
  5. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and top with the remaining cheese and the sliced jalapeno for garnish.

Notes

This salad is perfect on its own or served on a bed of greens. It can also be paired with tortilla chips for crunch or used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. For added crunch, sprinkle some extra bacon bits on top. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Keep toppings separate until ready to serve for maximum freshness.