Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
4 hrs
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Total Time
4 hrs 5 mins
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Servings
6
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken
Description
This recipe layers seasoned chicken breasts in a slow cooker with garlic powder, onion powder, white pepper, smoked paprika, jalapenos, and cream cheese. Slow cooking on low for several hours allows the chicken to become tender and infuses it with the heat and flavor of jalapenos and spices. After cooking, the chicken is shredded and mixed with ranch dressing and shredded cheddar cheese, incorporating creaminess and richness.
The final step involves sprinkling additional cheese and optional jalapeno rings on top, then heating briefly to melt the cheese. The result is a creamy, slightly spicy chicken mixture with a melted cheese topping. The slow cooker method provides hands-off cooking and even heat distribution to blend flavors.
This versatile prepared chicken works well as a filling for sandwiches, small tacos (taquitos), or as a hearty dip paired with crackers. It suits gatherings or casual meals where a creamy and spicy chicken dish is desired.
The recipe yields enough filling for about 20 taquitos using small taco tortillas.
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs. chicken breast boneless, skinless
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. onion powder
- 1/4 tsp. white pepper
- 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/3-1/2 cup jalapeno pepper about 3-4 jalapenos (if desired, save some jalapeno rings for the top, diced, fresh
- 8 oz. cream cheese I use full-fat as it melts better
- 2 cups cheddar cheese Colby Jack or Pepper Jack are also great, shredded, divided
- 1/3 cup ranch dressing not the seasoning packet
Instructions
- Place chicken in slow cooker. (I used a 5 quart for this recipe) Sprinkle the spices over the chicken. Top the seasoned chicken with the jalapeno and cream cheese. (Save the ranch and shredded cheese for later) Cook on low for 3 1/2 - 4 hours.
- When chicken is fully cooked, shred the chicken, then add the ranch dressing and 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese. Stir to fully combine, then sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on the top and place any jalapeno rings you may want on top of the cheese.
- Put the lid back on the slow cooker and keep on the warm setting or "low" until the cheese has melted, about 10 minutes. This chicken is wonderful in sandwiches and perfect for taquitos, or a dip with crackers! Enjoy!*This recipe makes 20 taquitos using small taco tortillas