Jalapeno Popper Keto Chicken Salad (Printable)

Creamy, spicy chicken salad with bacon, jalapenos, and cream cheese in a tangy dressing. Perfect low-carb meal ready in 30 minutes.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken & Bacon

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
02 - 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

→ Vegetables

03 - 2 medium jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped
04 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
05 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

→ Dressing

06 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
08 - 1/4 cup sour cream
09 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
11 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
12 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
13 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, jalapenos, red onion, and cilantro (if using).
02 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, lime juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
03 - Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
05 - Serve chilled, garnished with extra bacon, jalapeno slices, or cilantro if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of smoky bacon, cool cream cheese, and bright jalapeno creates layers of flavor in every single bite
  • It keeps perfectly in the fridge for 4 days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick lunches
  • You get all the satisfaction of jalapeno poppers without the breadcrumbs or frying
02 -
  • The texture changes significantly after chilling, so do not skip that 30 minute rest period in the refrigerator
  • Jalapeno heat varies wildly, so always taste a tiny bit before adding the full amount
  • This salad tastes even better on day two as the spices have more time to develop
03 -
  • Use a paper towel to blot excess moisture from the cooked chicken before mixing to prevent a watery salad
  • Grate your own cheddar cheese instead of buying pre-shredded for a creamier dressing