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+ servings
Ultimate Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad

Ultimate Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad You’ll Crave Daily

This Ultimate Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad combines rich flavors in a quick, healthy, low-carb dish that's meal prep-friendly.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken Breasts Shredded; use rotisserie chicken for convenience
  • 8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon Crispy, dark brown crumbles; can be replaced with turkey bacon
  • 2 medium Fresh Green Jalapenos Diced; key for spice and flavor
  • 1 cup Orange Cheddar Cheese Shredded; save some for garnishing
For the Dressing
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Softened; swap with dairy-free alternatives if needed
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier touch
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Provides depth; mix well to avoid clumps
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt Balances flavors; adjust to personal taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds mild heat; adjust quantity based on your preference

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Medium bowl
  • Spatula
  • Hand mixer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add thick-cut bacon strips and fry them until they are crispy and dark brown, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat, then crumble.
  2. Shred the cooked chicken breasts using two forks or a stand mixer until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese and mayonnaise with garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Gently fold the shredded chicken, diced jalapenos, orange cheddar cheese, and ¾ of the crumbled bacon into the dressing using a spatula.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a large serving bowl, garnish with remaining bacon, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapenos.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Cool chicken completely after cooking for best dressing consistency. Fold in crispy bacon right before serving.

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