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Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad

Jalapeno popper chicken salad in bowl with bacon and cheddar cheese

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Protein-packed chicken salad with all the creamy, spicy flavors of jalapeno poppers. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 12 oz) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 23 pickled jalapenos, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pickles for extra tang

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, red onion, minced garlic, and cilantro to the bowl.
  3. Stir in the lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. If using, add the chopped pickles and stir to combine.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more jalapenos for extra spice or more lime juice for additional tang.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  7. Give the salad a quick stir and serve chilled with your choice of accompaniments like lettuce cups, crackers, or wraps.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time. Make sure cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature to avoid lumps.
  • For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt. Remove jalapeno seeds for milder spice.
  • Store separately from crackers or bread when meal prepping to prevent sogginess. Bacon should be completely cooled before adding.

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