Description

Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad: a creamy, zesty twist on classic chicken salad loaded with tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and chopped jalapeños. A luscious cream cheese-yogurt base delivers bold flavor, rich texture, and protein for lunches or light dinners. Perfect for meal prep, it stays creamy after chilling, pairs beautifully with lettuce cups or crackers, and makes a standout Pinterest-worthy dish with craveable heat, indulgent creaminess, and a bright finish. Great for picnics and meal-prep friendly, this adaptable recipe invites toppings like green onions or cilantro.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
2 tbsp jalapeño brine
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: chopped green onions or fresh cilantro

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
Stir in jalapeños, jalapeño brine, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Add chicken and shredded cheddar cheese.
Mix until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill for 20–30 minutes for best flavor, then serve.

Notes

For milder heat, use fewer jalapeños or remove seeds.
Use mayo instead of yogurt for a richer version.
This keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serve on lettuce leaves, crostini, or in wraps.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mix and Chill
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
Calories: Approximately 375 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: About 1100 mg
Fat: About 85 g
Saturated Fat: About 40 g
Unsaturated Fat: About 45 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: About 9 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: About 38 g
Cholesterol: Approximately 150–200 mg

Keywords: Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad, spicy chicken salad, jalapeño cheddar, cream cheese chicken salad, high protein lunch, meal prep