Spicy Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Jalapeños
Dive into a world of creamy goodness with this Spicy Cheesy Chicken Casserole, bursting with flavor and the perfect kick! Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled plant-based sausage (or a suitable substitute)
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Sliced fresh jalapeños for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Next, fold in your cooked shredded chicken, diced jalapeños, 1/2 cup of both cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and half of the crumbled plant-based sausage. Stir everything together until combined evenly.
4. Spread this delicious chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, leveling it out for even cooking. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
5. In a separate small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter, ensuring the breadcrumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheesy layer on the casserole.
6. Bake the casserole uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbling and the breadcrumb topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
7. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with sliced fresh jalapeños and the remaining crumbled plant-based sausage before serving.
Nutritional Information: This casserole is rich in protein and calcium, providing approximately 350 calories per serving, with healthy fats from the cream cheese and sour cream.
Time: Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes