This creamy, slightly spicy chicken salad brings all the flavors you love from jalapeño poppers into an easy, satisfying dish. It’s rich, tangy, and packed with texture, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or light meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick to prepare and ideal for using up leftover cooked chicken. The balance of creaminess, gentle heat, and savory flavors makes it versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or gatherings. You can easily adjust the spice level and customize it with simple add-ins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
6 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
3 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
½ cup finely chopped smoked beef strips (halal alternative for a smoky flavor)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional add-ins (measurements as desired):
green onions, sliced
roasted corn
fresh cilantro, chopped
crushed tortilla chips, for topping
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper, and mix until well combined.
Fold in the shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and chopped smoked beef strips until evenly distributed.
Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and gently stir until all the chicken is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling time. Total time is about 45 minutes.
Variations
For a milder version, reduce the jalapeños to 1–2 or substitute with mild green chilies.
For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter texture.
Add diced celery or red bell pepper for extra crunch.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish is best served cold and does not require reheating. Stir gently before serving if any separation occurs.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works very well and saves time, as long as it’s chopped or shredded evenly.
How spicy is this chicken salad?
The spice level is moderate, but it depends on the jalapeños used. Removing seeds and membranes keeps the heat lower.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling, making it perfect for preparing a day in advance.
What can I serve with jalapeño popper chicken salad?
It pairs well with bread, wraps, crackers, or fresh vegetables like cucumber and lettuce.
Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the creamy ingredients can separate and change texture.
Is there a dairy-free option?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese and mayonnaise alternatives, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be used if drained very well and broken up before mixing.
How do I make it more filling?
Serve it in a wrap, sandwich, or with a side of whole grains or roasted vegetables.
Can I adjust the consistency?
If it’s too thick, stir in 1–2 tablespoons of milk or yogurt until you reach the desired texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well in the refrigerator and is great for quick lunches over a few days.
Conclusion
Jalapeño popper chicken salad is a flavorful, creamy dish that’s easy to customize and quick to prepare. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich filling, a dip, or a light main course, it’s a satisfying recipe that delivers comfort and bold taste in every bite.
This creamy, slightly spicy chicken salad combines the rich flavors of jalapeño poppers with tender chicken for a versatile dish perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or light meals.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
6 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
3 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
½ cup finely chopped smoked beef strips (halal alternative for a smoky flavor)
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional add-ins: green onions, sliced
Optional add-ins: roasted corn
Optional add-ins: fresh cilantro, chopped
Optional add-ins: crushed tortilla chips, for topping
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and creamy.
Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Fold in the shredded cheese, diced jalapeños, and chopped smoked beef strips until evenly distributed.
Add the cooked chicken to the bowl and gently stir until all the chicken is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend before serving.
Notes
For a milder version, reduce the jalapeños or substitute with mild green chilies.
Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Stir gently before serving if any separation occurs after chilling.
Great for meal prep and holds up well in the fridge for 3 days.
