Easy Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a creamy, spicy dish perfect for low-carb and keto diets. Packed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and a touch of heat from jalapenos, it makes a comforting meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cubed
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz cream cheese (full fat)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 5 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced
• 2 cups mature cheddar cheese, shredded
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with oil. Place the cubed chicken breasts evenly at the bottom of the dish.
2. Step 2: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated with the seasonings.
3. Step 3: Add the cream cheese to the chicken and mix well to combine all ingredients.
4. Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Step 5: Spread the diced jalapenos evenly on top of the chicken mixture.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the casserole.
7. Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the cooked, chopped bacon on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Remove jalapeno seeds to reduce heat, or leave some seeds in for a spicier kick.
• Substitute chicken with tofu, pork, or turkey for different protein options.
• Try mixing cheddar with pepper jack for extra flavor, or mozzarella for a gooier texture.
• Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon if you prefer a lighter alternative.
• Avoid low-fat cream cheese as it may contain more carbs, affecting keto goals.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients.

How spicy is this casserole?

The heat level depends on how many jalapeno seeds you include. Removing all seeds makes it mild, while leaving some or all in will increase the spiciness.

Easy Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 60 reviews

This Easy Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole is a hearty, low-carb dish combining tender chicken breast, creamy cheese, and spicy jalapenos, baked to perfection and topped with crispy bacon. It’s perfect for those following a keto lifestyle looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Carb

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasonings

• 4 chicken breasts, boneless, skinless, cubed
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Dairy and Cream

• 8 oz cream cheese (full fat)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups mature cheddar cheese, shredded

Vegetables

• 5 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced

Topping

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare and Preheat: Grease a casserole dish with oil and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a hot environment for even baking.
2. Season the Chicken: Place the cubed chicken breasts at the bottom of the casserole dish. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken.
3. Mix the Chicken and Spices: Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly toss the chicken in the seasonings to make sure each piece is well coated.
4. Add Cream Cheese: Incorporate the cream cheese into the chicken mixture, distributing it evenly throughout to provide a rich and creamy texture.
5. Combine Mixture: Mix well until the cream cheese is fully blended with the chicken and spices creating a uniform coating.
6. Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, which adds moisture and helps bind the casserole ingredients together.
7. Mix All Ingredients: Ensure all the components—the chicken, cream cheese, spices, and cream—are well integrated for consistent flavor.
8. Add Jalapenos: Evenly scatter the seeded and diced jalapenos over the top of the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
9. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mature cheddar cheese liberally on top to form a melted cheesy crust as it bakes.
10. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
11. Finish with Bacon: After removing the casserole from the oven, immediately sprinkle the cooked, chopped bacon on top before serving to add a crispy, smoky flavor.

Notes

• Remove jalapeno seeds to control spiciness; leave some seeds if you prefer extra heat.
• Use full-fat cream cheese to maintain keto-friendly macros; low-fat versions may have higher carbs.
• Substitute chicken with tofu, pork, or turkey for variety.
• Try mixing different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor and texture.
• Turkey or plant-based bacon are great alternatives for topping.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Keywords: keto casserole, jalapeno popper, low carb dinner, chicken casserole, keto chicken recipe