Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

A creamy, flavorful chicken salad inspired by jalapeno poppers. Combines tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, smoky bacon, and melty cheddar cheese in a light Greek yogurt and cream cheese dressing. Perfect for meals, snacks, or appetizers, and suitable for keto and low-carb diets.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 portions 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
  • 4 jalapeños, diced (fresh, roasted, or pickled)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and 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 to taste
  • Freshly ground pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or chives) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Poach chicken breasts until fully cooked or use shredded meat from a rotisserie chicken; pat dry and shred into bite-sized pieces, then let cool slightly.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet until crisp, then drain on paper towels and crumble into pieces.
  3. Dice jalapeños finely; remove seeds and membranes to reduce heat if desired. Roasted or pickled jalapeños can also be used.
  4. Whisk together Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Fold shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños into the dressing, mixing gently to coat evenly without becoming mushy.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs such as parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

Roasting jalapeños softens their heat and adds a subtle smoky flavor., Drain bacon thoroughly to prevent greasiness in the salad., Taste dressing before combining with chicken to adjust seasoning for preferred flavor balance., Store salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days; avoid freezing as texture will degrade., For extra crispy bacon, keep it separate and add right before serving.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 portion (varies with serving style)
  • Calories: 280 kcal per serving
  • Fat: Contains fat from bacon, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Low carbohydrate content per serving
  • Protein: High protein content from chicken and Greek yogurt per serving