This Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad is a tasty twist on the classic salad. It’s creamy, spicy, and has bits of crunchy bacon – what’s not to love?
Every bite gives you a little kick and a lot of flavor! Serve it in lettuce wraps or on a sandwich; it’s perfect for lunch or a picnic. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I recommend using shredded or chopped rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you want a lighter option, you can use canned chicken. For vegetarian versions, feel free to try chickpeas or crumbled tofu!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or use crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring heat and flavor! If you want a milder dish, consider using bell peppers instead, or removing the seeds from the jalapenos.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic here, but you can substitute with pepper jack for an extra kick, or try a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These keep your salad creamy. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for sour cream, while avocado mayonnaise is a great alternative for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to keeping your jalapeno popper chicken salad creamy is balancing the dressing. Start with half mayo and half sour cream for a rich texture, but feel free to adjust based on taste.
- Mix mayo and sour cream well before adding to the chicken; this ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes or longer helps the flavors meld together nicely.
Taste your salad after mixing the dressing, and feel free to adjust the seasonings. Everyone’s taste buds are different; make it your own!
Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2-3 jalapenos, deseeded and finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2-3 green onions, sliced (both white and green parts)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: extra crumbled bacon and sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In a little over 45 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and Tasties:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, finely chopped jalapenos, shredded cheese, and green onions. Toss everything together gently to combine. It should smell amazing already!
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.
3. Combine and Coat:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the creamy dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Give your salad a little taste! If you think it needs a little more seasoning, add more salt, pepper, or jalapenos based on your liking.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This gives the flavors time to mingle and makes it super delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, dish out the salad in lettuce wraps or on crackers. You can also serve it on bread for a tasty sandwich. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra crumbled bacon and green onions on top for that final touch!
This jalapeno popper chicken salad is creamy, zesty, and a delightful mix of flavors perfect for any meal or snack. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here. Just make sure it’s completely cooled and shredded or chopped before mixing it into the salad.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level?
If you prefer a milder salad, you can reduce the number of jalapenos or remove the seeds and membranes, which hold most of the heat. For extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced pickled jalapenos!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well covered to maintain freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just remember to keep it chilled in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It also gives the flavors more time to meld together!
