Description

A quick, creamy, and spicy chicken salad that combines shredded chicken with cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and jalapeños. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or serving on toast.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2–3 medium jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
3–4 stalks green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

If using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces. (Skip if using rotisserie chicken).
Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and 1 medium chopped jalapeño. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese. If cold, microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften.
Add the sautéed garlic and jalapeño mixture to the cream cheese. Stir until well combined and smooth.
Add the chopped chicken to the bowl and stir gently to coat evenly with the cream cheese mixture.
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. Sautéing the garlic and jalapeños adds depth of flavor. If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of milk or more cream cheese. If too wet, add more chicken or cheese. The salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Do not freeze as the cream cheese may separate.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 600
Fat: 20
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 5
Fiber: 1
Protein: 30

Keywords: chicken salad, jalapeño popper, creamy chicken, low carb, keto friendly, meal prep, quick dinner, spicy chicken