Can I cook Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili in a slow cooker. Start by preparing the base ingredients on the stovetop, such as sautéing the onions and peppers and combining the broth mixture. Then transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients like chicken and cheese, and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld and makes the chili ready with minimal hands-on time.

How spicy is Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili if I remove jalapeño seeds?

When you remove the membranes and seeds from fresh jalapeños, the chili’s heat level becomes mild to moderate, offering just a gentle, pleasant warmth rather than intense spiciness. This makes it suitable for people who enjoy a little kick but are sensitive to spicy foods. If you prefer more heat, you can leave some seeds or add extra jalapeños, but deseeding is a good way to control spice.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh jalapeños for the chili?

If you don’t have fresh jalapeños, canned chopped jalapeños are a practical substitute. Use a 4-ounce can of chopped jalapeños, drained, to maintain the chili’s characteristic flavor and mild heat. Alternatively, diced green chilies can also replace fresh jalapeños, but be aware they tend to be milder, so you might want to adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can leftover Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili be frozen for later?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili. Portion the chili into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion. When reheating, thaw partially in the refrigerator or microwave, then warm on the stove or microwave until heated through. You might need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the chili’s consistency after freezing.

Does using cream cheese in Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili affect its texture?

Cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture to Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili, making it thicker and smoother. It helps balance the heat from the jalapeños and melds the flavors together nicely. To prevent curdling, stir the cream cheese in gradually over low heat until fully melted and incorporated into the chili. This ingredient also contributes to the signature “jalapeño popper” flavor profile.

Chicken Jalapeno Popper Chili Recipe with Creamy Cheese

Ingredients

– 2 tablespoons butter

– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

– 3½ cups chicken broth

– 1 cup half-and-half

– 1 rotisserie chicken, skin removed, meat pulled off bones and chopped (about 4 cups)

– 1 pound cooked and chopped bacon (can substitute turkey bacon or use 1 cup precooked chopped bacon)

– 2 (15-ounce) cans white kidney beans, rinsed and drained

– 3 fresh jalapeños, seeds removed and diced (can substitute a 4-ounce can of chopped jalapeños or a can of diced green chilies)

– 2 tablespoons dried minced onion flakes

– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

– 2 teaspoons cumin

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– 1 (8-ounce) block cream cheese

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Instructions

1-First, prepare all ingredients by washing and dicing the jalapenos, along with any other veggies, to streamline your cooking process.

2-In a Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons butter and stir in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Cook for 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in 3½ cups chicken broth and 1 cup half-and-half. Bring it to a boil and cook for 2 minutes until it thickens up WOW, that base is going to be creamy!

3-Add the chopped rotisserie chicken (about 4 cups), 1 pound cooked and chopped bacon, 2 cans of white kidney beans (rinsed and drained), the diced jalapenos, 2 tablespoons dried minced onion flakes, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and 1 block of cream cheese. Stir everything together and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until it’s all warm and blended.

4-Garnish with extra bacon, sliced jalapenos, and pepper jack cheese if you like. Don’t forget optional toppings like sour cream and corn chips for that extra crunch!

Notes

🔥 Use a whole rotisserie chicken for approximately 4 cups of chopped meat for ease and flavor.
🥓 Substitute turkey bacon or use precooked bacon to save preparation time.
⏲️ For a slow cooker option, prepare the roux and broth mixture on the stove, then transfer to a crockpot along with remaining ingredients and cook until hot.

Author: Brandi Oshea
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Chili
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten-Free option available

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350 per serving (estimate)
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 25 g
Saturated Fat: 12 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 4 g
Protein: 25 g
Cholesterol: 80 mg