Description
This Keto Jalapeño Popper Casserole is a spicy, creamy, and cheesy low-carb dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses with jalapeños for a perfect kick. Ideal for keto and gluten-free diets, this casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it a satisfying main course with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
Dairy
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for added flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Transfer Chicken to Baking Dish: Once cooked, transfer the chicken pieces evenly into the greased baking dish as the casserole’s base.
- Prepare Cheese and Jalapeño Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and half of the diced jalapeños. Mix well until creamy and evenly blended.
- Layer the Mixture: Spread the cheese and jalapeño mixture evenly over the chicken in the baking dish, creating a rich and creamy layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, followed by the rest of the diced jalapeños and the crispy cooked bacon.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired for added freshness and color.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your spice tolerance.
- This casserole reheats well and is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time.
- For extra smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
