Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole Recipe

Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken provides the protein base for this casserole.

Cream cheese: Adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the dish.

Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives a sharp, tangy taste and melts beautifully.

Jalapenos: Chopped jalapenos bring a spicy kick to the casserole.

Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic.

Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor without the need for fresh onions.

Salt: Balances and enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

When combining the shredded chicken with the cream cheese, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to ensure a smooth and even mixture. This will help the cheddar cheese and jalapenos distribute more uniformly throughout the casserole, resulting in a consistent flavor in every bite. Additionally, consider using freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier texture.

• cooked chicken - Substitute with cooked turkey: Turkey has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable low-carb alternative.

• cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, fitting well into a keto diet.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the dish.

• jalapenos - Substitute with poblano peppers: Poblano peppers are milder but still provide a slight heat and a similar texture.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more robust flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• onion powder - Substitute with shallot powder: Shallot powder has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor, making it a good alternative.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar level of saltiness but with a slightly different mineral profile.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity for a subtle difference.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. If you don't have one large enough, you can use multiple smaller containers.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For long-term storage, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date and contents to keep track of its freshness.
• Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish if it’s not already in one. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes to allow the top to crisp up.
• For a quicker option, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until hot.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the leftover Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole to an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the chicken from drying out.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is bubbly.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a portion of the leftover casserole in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes if necessary.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
  3. Place the leftover casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
  4. Remove when the cheese is bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) until it is bubbly and golden brown on top.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Baking dish: Used to spread the mixture evenly before baking.

• Spatula: Used to mix the ingredients thoroughly in the mixing bowl.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper accurately.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapenos.

• Knife: Used to chop the jalapenos.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to chop the jalapenos.

• Oven mitts: Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding your own.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the jalapenos and measure out the spices ahead of time to streamline the assembly process.

Soften cream cheese quickly: Microwave the cream cheese for 20-30 seconds to soften it faster.

Shred cheese in bulk: Shred extra cheddar cheese and store it in the fridge for future recipes.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine all ingredients using a food processor to save mixing time.