Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad

This fresh and flavorful keto jalapeno popper chicken salad is nothing like any salad you’ve had before! 

Sometimes I get really tired of the same old salad routine: lettuce, meat, dressing. There are only so many different types of salad dressings I can try before it all begins to taste the same. 

Similar: Low Carb Jalapeño Popper Casserole

That’s why this salad recipe is so exciting! It has a creamy texture that reminds me of jalepeño poppers – with all the spice and flavor of it too. It’s both indulgent and guilt-free, which is the perfect combination. 

Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad – Easy Keto Lunch

This is quickly becoming one of my favorite low-carb lunches that I make. It’s so easy to put together. In fact, there are a few shortcuts you can make to speed up the process even more.  Store the mayo and cream cheese mixture in the fridge so it’s ready to go. 

You can also either pre-make your bacon ahead of time or just buy the pre-made bacon. Either way, you can avoid having to fry your bacon fresh if you don’t have time for it. 

Perfect For Meal Prep

I love how I can make this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for the entire week. 

Yup! This Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad lasts a week in the fridge and tastes amazing the entire time.  You can even double the recipe and store it in individual meal-prep containers. Then, you just have to grab a container and you have lunch! So easy! 

More Southwest Recipes

Here are some of my favorite recipes that have a noticeable southwest flair that I’m sure you’ll love! 

Keto Jalapeno Popper Fat Bombs
Avocado Chicken Salad

Budget-Friendly Keto Lunch

You’ll love how cheap this is to make. Who said healthy foods are expensive? Save even more money by using canned chicken and leaving out the bacon. 

How To Make An Easy Low-Carb Chicken Salad

After you make this salad once, you’ll have the recipe memorized. 

The entire recipe is just a little further down. First, I’m answering some frequently asked questions about the recipe. 

What’s In Keto Jalapeno Popper Chicken Salad 

Here’s what I used in my salad, along with any substitutions you can make.

• Bacon – Use any type of bacon you like, just pay attention to how many carbs are in it. Turkey bacon tastes amazing on it!
• Jalapeños – Jarred peppers work too, but fresh has a much better taste. 
• Green onions – substitute leeks or chives for green onions
• Cooked, shredded chicken – use fresh, canned, or rotisserie chicken 
• Cheddar Cheese – Use shredded cheese. You can omit the cheddar cheese without affecting the recipe.
• Cream Cheese – Use full-fat cream cheese for the most nutrition
• Mayonaise

Things You Can Add To This Salad

I can seriously just eat this with a fork just the way it is. But if you want a few different ways to eat it, here are a few of the things you can add to it to change it up. 

• Spinach – sprinkle some fresh lettuce leaves on top for a little extra crunch
• Cucumber – Slice some cucumber and use it to scoop out the salad. Or make your own little appetizers with it. 
• Avocado – Spoon this salad on top of half of an avocado. This makes it even more filling! 
• Cloud Bread or Chaffle – There are lots of different keto-friendly bread ideas out there. Use your favorite one and make a low-carb sandwich. 

Is Mayonaise Keto-Friendly? 

Mayo is keto-friendly. Watch out for any hidden sugars. It’s pretty easy to make your own. I love this Easy Keto Mayo from Wholesome Yum and this low carb mayonnaise made with olive oil from Low Carb Yum. They’re both so easy!

Health Benefits of Jalapeño Popper Chicken Salad

There are so many health benefits of this low carb lunch idea. 

For starters, chicken is a lean source of protein. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese are both excellent sources of protein too. That makes this recipe packed with muscle-building proteins your body craves. 

Jalapeño peppers are super good for you too. In addition to the fiber, they are high in vitamin C (for your immune system), vitamin A (for your eyes and bones), and potassium (for your muscles). 

Studies also show that eating hot peppers can minimize your risk for obesity too. Extra score! 

Keto Jalepeño Popper Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe! Exact measurements are located within the printable recipe card.

Ingredients: 

Bacon
Jalapenos
Green onions
Chicken
Cheddar cheese
Cream cheese
Mayonnaise
Salt and pepper 

Directions 

In a bowl add chicken, bacon, jalapeños, green onions, and cheese.

Add mayo, cream cheese, and salt, and pepper to taste.

Stir until completely mixed.

Refrigerate until ready to eat.

Top with extra bacon or green onions and for an extra spicy kick drizzle with your favorite hot sauce!

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