Enjoy a fresh take on a classic dish with this high protein jalapeno popper chicken salad. Packed with flavor and plenty of protein, this low-carb recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt. With crispy bacon, zesty jalapeños, and creamy cheese, each bite offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
This jalapeno popper chicken salad combines the richness of bacon and cheese with the fresh crunch of cooked chicken and jalapeños. It’s not just tasty; it’s a nutritious choice perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. The ingredients work together to create a satisfying meal that is easy to make and loaded with protein. Plus, you can easily customize it for your spice preference!
How to Make High Protein Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
- 4 jalapeños, diced (fresh, roasted, or pickled)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (or light mayo)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish
Step by Step:
- Cook & Shred Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts until tender. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Prep Jalapeños: Dice your choice of fresh, roasted, or pickled jalapeños, adjusting the amount based on your heat preference.
- Make Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add Mix-ins: Fold the shredded chicken, bacon, cheese, and jalapeños into the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill & Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
- Serving Ideas: Enjoy this chicken salad in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, stuffed avocados, or with crackers and veggie sticks.
How to Serve High Protein Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
This chicken salad works beautifully as a filling dish on its own or as a side. Serve it in lettuce leaves for a refreshing low-carb option, or enjoy it on whole-grain bread for a heartier meal. Pair with your favorite veggies for a healthy lunch or snack.
How to Store High Protein Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad should stay fresh for up to three days. If you used fresh herbs, consider adding them just before serving for the best flavor.
Tips to Make High Protein Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
- Adjust jalapeño quantity based on your spice preference to tailor the heat level.
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or substitute with light mayo if you prefer.
- Consider adding your favorite nuts for an extra crunch and flavor hit.
Variation
For a Mediterranean twist, try adding olives and feta cheese to the chicken salad. This will give your recipe a different flavor profile while still keeping it deliciously rich.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken is a quick and convenient option. Just drain it well and shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.
2. How can I make this dairy-free?
To make this chicken salad dairy-free, swap the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan yogurt in place of Greek yogurt.
3. Can I freeze this chicken salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this chicken salad due to the ingredients’ texture changes, especially the mayo or yogurt, which may separate upon thawing.
With its vibrant flavors and protein-rich ingredients, this jalapeno popper chicken salad recipe will quickly become a favorite. For more delicious ways to incorporate protein into your meals, check out our high protein chicken salad recipes. Enjoy every bite!
High Protein Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Chicken & Bacon
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie or poached
- 6 slices bacon cooked & crumbled
Dressing
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or light mayo
- 2 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Veggies & Cheese
- 4 jalapeños diced (fresh, roasted, or pickled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- Fresh herbs parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook & shred chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or poach chicken breasts until tender. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Prep jalapeños: Dice your choice of fresh, roasted, or pickled jalapeños, adjusting the amount based on your heat preference.
- Make dressing: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Mixing
- Fold the shredded chicken, bacon, cheese, and jalapeños into the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Chilling
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.