Jalapeño popper chicken casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups diced chicken breasts
- 1 (16 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup real bacon bits
- 4-6 fresh jalapeños, diced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix with Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with the softened cream cheese until well incorporated.
- Add Bacon and Jalapeños: Add the real bacon bits and diced jalapeños to the chicken and cream cheese mixture. Adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your desired level of spiciness. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake First Round: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Add More Cheese and Bread Crumbs: After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the top with an additional layer of shredded cheese and seasoned bread crumbs.
- Broil to Golden Brown: Turn on the broiler to low and place the casserole back into the oven. Broil until the top is golden brown and bubbly, which should take just a few minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Jalapeño Popper Chicken Casserole!
