Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken is a creamy, spicy twist on a classic appetizer, transformed into a hearty main dish. Tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with cream cheese, cheddar, and jalapenos make for an irresistible, flavorful meal perfect for slider nights or casual dinners.

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 cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the chicken, flipping the pieces to coat evenly.
4. Step 4: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the cream cheese for 30 to 60 seconds until soft and spreadable.
5. Step 5: Add the diced jalapenos, fire-roasted chiles, and half of the shredded cheese to the softened cream cheese. Stir 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, mixing it with the creamy sauce.
9. Step 9: Serve the jalapeno popper chicken on slider buns and garnish with sliced green onions.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, leave some jalapeno seeds in or add a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
• Substitute Colby Jack with sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
• Serve with pickles or a side of coleslaw for added crunch and balance.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer, more moist result.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent the cheese from separating. This dish can also be frozen 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 fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. Using frozen chicken may increase cook time and result in uneven texture.

Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in a covered baking dish at 325°F (160°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the chicken is tender and cooks through completely.

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken Recipe

---

★★★★★

5 from 144 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 3 hours 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

This Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for a delicious sandwich or appetizer. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, shredded Colby Jack, fire-roasted chiles, and fresh jalapenos for a rich and flavorful meal. Serve on slider buns and top with sliced green onions for a crowd-pleasing treat that’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Mixture

• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (thin sliced or regular)
• 1 oz. ranch dressing mix

Cheese and Peppers Mixture

• 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)

To Serve

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

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the inside of the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker evenly.
3. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the chicken and flip the pieces around in the slow cooker to coat them well with the ranch seasoning.
4. Soften the cream cheese: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the cream cheese and heat it in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds until it becomes soft and easier to mix.
5. Combine cheeses and peppers: To the softened cream cheese, add the diced fresh jalapenos, drained fire-roasted chiles, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese. Stir with a spoon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Layer the mixture: Spread the cream cheese and jalapeno mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken 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 the chicken: Using two forks, shred the chicken pieces directly in the slow cooker, mixing everything together.
9. Serve and garnish: Spoon the jalapeno popper chicken onto slider buns and top with sliced green onions for added flavor and freshness.

Notes

• For spicier results, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add an extra jalapeno.
• Using thin-sliced chicken breasts helps reduce cooking time and ensures even cooking.
• This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated, simply reheat before serving.
• Serve with additional ranch dressing or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Substitute slider buns with your favorite bread or serve over rice for a low-carb option.

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

Keywords: slow cooker chicken, jalapeno popper chicken, creamy chicken recipe, ranch chicken, slow cooker dinner, spicy chicken, chicken sliders, easy slow cooker recipe