Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken is a creamy, spicy dish perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Using simple ingredients and your slow cooker, you’ll get tender chicken loaded with cheesy, jalapeno flavor that’s delicious on slider buns.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (thin sliced or regular)
• 1 oz. ranch dressing mix
• 8 oz. cream cheese
• 8 oz. shredded colby jack cheese (pre-shredded is fine)
• 7 oz. fire-roasted chiles (drained)
• 2 jalapenos (seeds removed and diced)
• Slider buns (such as King’s Hawaiian savory rolls)
• Sliced green onion, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Spray the slow cooker with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken breasts to the slow cooker.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the chicken and flip the pieces until well coated.
4. Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the cream cheese by heating it for 30-60 seconds.
5. Step 5: Stir the diced jalapenos, fire-roasted chiles, and half of the shredded cheese into the softened cream cheese until smooth.
6. Step 6: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
7. Step 7: Cover and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the chicken shreds easily.
8. Step 8: Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks and mix to combine with the cheese mixture.
9. Step 9: Serve the jalapeno popper chicken on slider buns and garnish with sliced green onions.

Tips & Variations

• For a milder version, use fewer jalapenos or remove all seeds before dicing.
• Try substituting colby jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add cooked bacon bits for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let it reduce slightly.

Storage

Store leftover jalapeno popper chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Using frozen chicken may increase cooking time and lead to uneven results.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake the ingredients covered in a casserole dish at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 71 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, spicy mixture of cream cheese, colby jack cheese, ranch seasoning, and jalapenos, slow-cooked to perfection. Ideal as a flavorful appetizer or served on slider buns for a delicious sandwich, this dish brings the classic flavors of jalapeno poppers in an easy, hands-off slow cooker meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (thin sliced or regular)
• 1 oz ranch dressing mix
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 8 oz shredded colby jack cheese (pre-shredded)
• 7 oz fire-roasted chiles (drained)
• 2 jalapenos, seeds removed and diced

For Serving

• Slider buns (such as King’s Hawaiian savory rolls)
• Sliced green onion

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Instructions

1. Prepare Slow Cooker: Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker in an even layer.
3. Coat Chicken with Ranch Mix: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken breasts, then flip and toss the chicken to coat thoroughly with the ranch seasoning.
4. Soften Cream Cheese: In a microwave-safe medium bowl, microwave the cream cheese for 30 to 60 seconds until softened to enable easy mixing.
5. Mix Jalapeno Cheese Mixture: Add the diced jalapenos, drained fire-roasted chiles, and half of the shredded colby jack cheese to the softened cream cheese. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
6. Layer Mixture Over Chicken: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the coated chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
7. Cook: Cover and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork.
8. Shred Chicken: When cooking is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it well with the creamy cheese and chile mixture.
9. Serve: Spoon the shredded jalapeno popper chicken onto slider buns, and garnish with sliced green onions for a delicious, spicy sandwich.

Notes

• Using thin sliced chicken allows for faster cooking and easier shredding, but regular chicken breasts work fine.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of jalapenos or omit the seeds.
• For a lower fat version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese.
• This recipe can be doubled for larger gatherings; just increase the slow cooking time slightly as needed.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Slow cooker chicken, Jalapeno popper chicken, Cream cheese chicken, Easy slow cooker recipe, Spicy chicken sliders