Go Back
If you're in search of a comforting and satisfying dish that combines creamy textures with a spicy kick, look no further than the Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Casserole. This recipe has quickly gained popularity in kitchens across the nation, primarily due to its mouthwatering flavor profile and ease of preparation. The allure of this casserole lies in its ability to blend the rich creaminess of its ingredients with the zesty heat of jalapeños, creating a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting.

Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Casserole recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish blends the creamy richness of chicken, cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. It's versatile too—swap rice for quinoa for a healthier twist! Bake until golden and bubbly, then serve with your favorite sides for a hearty meal that will impress family and friends. Enjoy a delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience)

1 cup cooked white rice (or quinoa for a healthier twist)

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled; adjust quantity according to your heat preference)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon taco seasoning (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor boost)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy topping)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.

    Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced jalapeños, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, taco seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.

      Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom.

        Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture for a delicious, cheesy layer. Then, evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top to create a crunchy finishing touch.

          Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes. The casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are a lovely golden brown.

            Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors set. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro for a vibrant and flavorful finish.

              Enjoy Your Meal: Serve generous portions of your creamy jalapeño chicken casserole and dive into this comforting dish packed with flavor and heat!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6-8 servings