There’s something incredibly satisfying about indulging in comfort food without the guilt, especially when it’s made with wholesome ingredients. This jalapeño popper keto chicken salad has become a staple in our home for its creamy texture, zesty kick, and delightful contrast of flavors. When I first made it, I was searching for an easy yet impressive dish to serve at a gathering and stumbled upon this winning recipe. Serving this chilled meal requires little prep but delivers maximum satisfaction, perfect for anyone on a low-carb journey or just in search of a delicious salad.
You’re going to love this dish for its creamy richness combined with the heat from fresh jalapeños and the crunch of crispy bacon, all while making sure you stick to your dietary preferences. It’s an ideal meal prep option too, as it can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week, holding its flavor and freshness wonderfully. Whether packed for lunch or served at a summer barbecue, this salad showcases everything great about comfort food without all the carbs.
"This salad is a game-changer! Full of flavor and so filling!"
Why you’ll love this
- Quick to prepare and serve cold.
- Full of flavor with creamy and spicy elements.
- Great for meal prep; lasts days in the fridge.
- Requires minimal kitchen time and cleanup.
- Satisfies cravings while adhering to keto guidelines.
Step-by-step overview
This jalapeño popper keto chicken salad comes together with just a few straightforward steps: poach the chicken, prepare the bacon and jalapeños, mix the creamy dressing with spices, and fold in everything to combine. Finally, serve it chilled. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy a delightful meal.
What you’ll need
- 2.5 Lbs Chicken Breast – cooked & chopped
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese – softened
- 1 Cup Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Chili Powder
- Pinch Salt/Pepper
- 4 Slices Cooked Bacon – chopped
- 1 Large Jalapeno – seeded & chopped
- 1 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Chicken: Poached chicken offers a soft texture, but feel free to use roasted or shredded chicken.
- Cream cheese: Provides a creamy base. Consider using Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch, or substitute with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Jalapeño: Adjust spice level by using less or opting for a milder pepper, like a bell pepper, for sweetness.
How to make it
Follow these easy steps to whip up this creamy and spicy chicken salad that everyone will rave about:
- Cook the chicken breast using your preferred method. Poaching in simmering water for 15-20 minutes yields moist chicken, which you should then chop and set aside.
- Prepare your bacon and chop the jalapeño into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped bacon, jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Serve cold, garnished with additional jalapeño slices if desired.
Pro Tip: Always let the cream cheese soften at room temperature to prevent lumps in your salad.
When ready, you’ll see a colorful and appetizing mix that almost demands serving right away.
Helpful cooking tips
- For even cooking when poaching chicken, you might want to season the water with herbs or lemon for added flavor.
- Preparing bacon in the oven can save time and result in perfectly crisp slices without constant attention.
- Don’t skip the resting time; allowing your salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Experiment with garnishes like fresh cilantro or green onions for an added fresh pop if you desire.
Best ways to enjoy it
This salad is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens or alongside crunchy vegetables for a satisfying meal. You can also scoop it up with a low-carb tortilla, serve it in lettuce wraps, or enjoy it simply with celery sticks or cucumber rounds for a refreshing crunch.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store, place the chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should stay fresh for up to four days. Enjoying this dish as a delightful lunch or snack is perfect!
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours; reheat until steaming hot.
How to fix common issues
If you find yourself with dry chicken, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or cream cheese to enhance creaminess. For a bland flavor, simply adjust the seasoning by adding more garlic powder or even a splash of hot sauce to ramp up the heat without diluting the flavors. If the salad is too thick, mix in a tablespoon of chicken broth or sour cream until your desired consistency is reached. Avoid adding too much liquid, as you want to keep the richness.
Recipe variations
Feel free to customize this salad to make it uniquely yours! You could add diced bell peppers for sweetness or swap the jalapeños for diced green chilies for a milder taste. If you prefer crunch, consider adding nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts. For a more vibrant profile, a handful of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can really elevate the dish.
Common questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and still yield flavorful results. Just make sure to shred or chop it similarly for even mixing.
Is this chicken salad suitable for freezing?
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Just be aware that cream cheese might alter in texture once thawed. Keep in the freezer for up to three months.
How spicy is jalapeño popper keto chicken salad?
The spiciness varies depending on the jalapeño and its seeds. Removing the seeds will lessen the heat, so adjust according to your taste preference.
Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream and ensure the mayonnaise is also free from dairy.
What’s the best way to serve leftover chicken salad?
Leftover chicken salad is perfect on its own, wrapped in lettuce, or loaded onto a low-carb tortilla. It makes for a satisfying snack or lunch option that’s quick to prepare.
This jalapeño popper keto chicken salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and versatility, providing comfort without compromising on nutrition. Dive in, and enjoy all the goodness it offers!
Jalapeño Popper Keto Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the chicken breast using your preferred method, poaching in simmering water for 15-20 minutes for moist chicken, then chop and set aside.
- Prepare your bacon and chop the jalapeño into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Stir in the chopped bacon, jalapeños, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- Serve cold, garnished with additional jalapeño slices if desired.