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Creamy Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

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This creamy jalapeño popper cheesy chicken enchilada casserole combines tender shredded chicken, spicy jalapeños, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese in a comforting, crowd-pleasing bake. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup chopped cooked bacon (about 4–5 strips)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 8 flour tortillas (8-inch, or corn for gluten-free)
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup green enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half & half)
  • Sliced green onions (optional garnish)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Diced tomatoes (optional garnish)
  • Additional jalapeño slices (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, sour cream, chopped jalapeños, cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and evenly combined.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together green enchilada sauce and heavy cream until smooth.
  4. Spoon about ⅓ cup of chicken filling onto each tortilla. Roll up and place seam-side down in the prepared casserole dish.
  5. Pour the sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas, ensuring full coverage.
  6. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Add extra bacon or jalapeño slices if desired.
  7. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
  8. Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, and diced tomatoes if desired.

Notes

For gluten-free, use corn tortillas and check enchilada sauce labels. For less spice, remove jalapeño seeds or substitute poblano peppers. Prep filling ahead for busy nights. Grate your own cheese for best melt. Bacon can be swapped for turkey bacon or omitted for lighter/vegetarian versions. Filling can be adjusted with extra chicken or cheese for desired consistency.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper casserole, chicken enchilada casserole, cheesy casserole, family dinner, easy Mexican recipe, comfort food, spicy chicken bake

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/creamy-jalape-n-o-popper-cheesy-chicken-enchilada-casserole-easy-homemade-recipe-for-family-dinners/