Description

This Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chicken recipe combines tender shredded chicken with spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and rich ranch dressing, creating a flavorful and easy-to-make filling perfect for slider buns. Perfect as a party appetizer or a casual meal, this dish brings the classic flavors of jalapeno poppers into a hearty chicken sandwich.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts (thin sliced or regular)
1 oz. ranch dressing mix
8 oz. cream cheese
7 oz. fire-roasted chiles (drained)
2 jalapenos (seeds removed and diced)
8 oz. shredded Colby Jack cheese (pre-shredded is fine)

For Serving

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

Instructions

Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the chicken and cheese from sticking during cooking.
Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the slow cooker in an even layer.
Season the chicken: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the chicken, then flip and move the chicken pieces around to coat them thoroughly with the ranch seasoning.
Soften the cream cheese: In a microwave-safe medium bowl, heat the cream cheese for 30-60 seconds until softened and easy to stir.
Mix cheese and peppers: Add the diced jalapenos, fire-roasted chiles, and half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese to the softened cream cheese. Stir the mixture well until smooth and evenly combined.
Combine cheese mixture with chicken: Spread the cream cheese and pepper mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
Cook the chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until the chicken breasts are cooked through and shred easily with a fork.
Shred the chicken: Using two forks directly in the slow cooker, shred the cooked chicken, mixing it well with the cheesy jalapeno mixture.
Serve: Spoon the jalapeno popper chicken onto slider buns and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve warm for a delicious sandwich experience.

Notes

You can use regular chicken breasts if thin sliced chicken is unavailable, just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Remove seeds from jalapenos to reduce heat; include seeds for a spicier kick.
Be sure to use fire-roasted chiles for the best smoky flavor.
Slider buns can be substituted with mini sandwich rolls or regular buns, depending on desired serving size.
For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese, though it may alter creaminess slightly.
Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: jalapeno popper chicken, slow cooker chicken, jalapeno chicken sliders, creamy shredded chicken, party appetizers