Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas With Creamy Sauce

Name: Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 enchiladas
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded cooked chicken; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 2 medium jalapeños, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons almond flour; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped; 8 low-carb tortillas; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping); 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Cost per Serving: ~$3.50
Calorie Count per Serving: ~350 kcal

These Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce are a game-changer, trust me, you’re going to love this! Imagine the creamy, cheesy goodness of a jalapeño popper combined with the comforting, saucy perfection of enchiladas—all in one dish. Every bite is packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and just the right amount of spice from fresh jalapeños.

This dish hits all the right notes. The rich, creamy jalapeño sauce ties everything together, making each enchilada irresistibly flavorful. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels special or a dish to impress at your next gathering, these enchiladas are the answer.

So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Why you will love this Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce

A plate of cheesy jalapeño popper chicken enchiladas covered in creamy sauce and topped with fresh cilantro and diced tomatoes. — Jalapeño popper chicken enchiladas smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce with fresh toppings.

These Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas take everything you love about classic enchiladas and jalapeño poppers and combine them into one creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy dish.

Bold, Cheesy, and Loaded with Flavor

The rich, melty cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy cream cheese create a filling that’s irresistibly creamy, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.

Easy to Make, Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Assemble everything ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Customizable to Your Spice Level

Want it milder? Remove the jalapeño seeds. Love the heat? Add an extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can make this dish exactly how you like it.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Option

Use low-carb tortillas and almond flour for a version that fits your diet without sacrificing any of the indulgent flavors.

This recipe is rich, creamy, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen!

How to make Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce

INGREDIENTS

For exact ingredient measurements, see the full recipe card below.

Chicken

Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly here—it’s tender, flavorful, and saves time. If you prefer, you can use leftover baked or grilled chicken. Just be sure to shred it finely so it blends well with the creamy filling.

Bacon

Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that balances the richness of the cheese. If you’re a bacon lover, feel free to sprinkle a little extra on top before baking.

Cream Cheese

The secret to that signature jalapeño popper creaminess. It melts into the filling, making each bite smooth and velvety. Let it soften before mixing for the best texture.

Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese

A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack gives the perfect balance of bold flavor and meltiness. Cheddar brings a bit of tang, while Monterey Jack keeps things extra gooey.

Jalapeños

Fresh jalapeños give these enchiladas their signature kick. Remove the seeds for a milder heat, or leave some in if you want a bit more spice. If you love extra heat, a few dashes of hot sauce in the filling won’t hurt.

Tortillas

Soft low-carb tortillas hold everything together while keeping it keto-friendly. If you’re not watching carbs, flour tortillas will work just as well.

Creamy Jalapeño Sauce

A rich, velvety sauce made with butter, almond flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Sour cream gives it a tangy finish, and a touch of cumin and smoked paprika brings warm, smoky depth.

Cilantro

A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top adds a burst of brightness to balance the richness. If cilantro isn’t your thing, chopped green onions make a great alternative.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

A pan of cheesy chicken enchiladas topped with fresh jalapeño slices, sour cream, and melted cheese. — Baked chicken enchiladas with jalapeño slices and a cheesy golden crust.

1-Prep the Oven & Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it. This helps prevent the enchiladas from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

2-Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a thick, creamy filling.

3-Cook the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in almond flour and cook for about a minute until golden. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream, sour cream, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the chopped jalapeño and let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.

4-Assemble the Enchiladas

Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken filling into the center. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, arranging them snugly in the dish.

5-Add the Sauce & Cheese

Pour the warm creamy jalapeño sauce evenly over the enchiladas, making sure each one is well coated. Sprinkle the extra cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

6-Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden on top. If you like an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

7-Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, let the enchiladas cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve warm. For an extra finishing touch, add a dollop of sour cream or sliced avocado on top.

Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce Recipe Tips

Shred the Chicken Finely

The filling blends best when the chicken is finely shredded. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, pull it apart with your hands or use two forks. For an even easier method, toss warm chicken into a stand mixer with the paddle attachment and let it do the work.

Soften the Cream Cheese First

Cold cream cheese won’t mix evenly with the other ingredients. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before stirring it into the filling. If you’re short on time, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it quickly.

Control the Heat Level

Jalapeños add a nice kick, but if you prefer a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For extra heat, leave some seeds in or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling.

Toast the Tortillas for Better Texture

If you want to prevent soggy enchiladas, quickly warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds per side before assembling. This adds a little structure and keeps them from getting too soft when baking.

Let the Sauce Thicken Properly

A slightly thick sauce is key to rich, creamy enchiladas. Let it simmer until it coats the back of a spoon before pouring it over the dish. If it gets too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Broil for a Golden, Crispy Top

For that irresistible cheesy crust, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it—cheese can go from golden to burnt in seconds.

Let It Rest Before Serving

As tempting as it is to dig in right away, let the enchiladas sit for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the filling set, making them easier to serve without falling apart.

PERFECT PAIRINGS & WHEN TO SERVE

Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce 12

These Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce are rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, so they pair best with sides that add a little freshness or crunch. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, here are a few ways to round out your meal.

Great Sides to Serve with Enchiladas

Jiffy Mexican Cornbread – A slightly sweet, buttery cornbread that balances the spice of the enchiladas.
A Crisp Avocado Salad – Toss mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh contrast.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, flavored with cumin, lime, and cilantro.
Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions add a smoky touch and lighten up the meal.

When to Serve These Enchiladas

This Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce is hearty, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing, making it perfect for any occasion:

Weeknight Dinners – Prep them ahead of time and just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Game Day or Potlucks – These enchiladas hold up well, making them a great choice for sharing.
Family Gatherings – A comforting, easy-to-make dish that everyone will love.
Meal Prep – Leftovers reheat beautifully, so make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

No matter when you serve them, these enchiladas are always a hit!

Recommended Kitchen Tools

1-Hand Mixer: Shredding chicken by hand takes time, but a hand mixer makes it effortless. Just place warm cooked chicken in a bowl, turn on the mixer, and in seconds, you have perfectly shredded chicken—no forks needed.

🔗 Check out this highly-rated hand mixer on Amazon

2-Cast Iron Skillet: A cast iron skillet is perfect for crisping up bacon, sautéing jalapeños, or even making a quick batch of tortillas. It heats evenly, holds heat well, and lasts forever with proper care.

🔗 See this top-rated cast iron skillet on Amazon

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce

Can I make these enchiladas ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the enchiladas and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just bake as directed—no extra prep needed.

Can I freeze them?

Absolutely. Place the assembled enchiladas in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes, or bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes.

How do I reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Can I make these without tortillas?

Yes! Turn it into a jalapeño popper chicken casserole by layering the filling and sauce in a baking dish, topping it with cheese, and baking as directed.

How can I make this spicier?

For extra heat, leave some jalapeño seeds in, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or drizzle hot sauce over the finished dish. If you love spice, swap Monterey Jack for Pepper Jack cheese.

Can I use store-bought enchilada sauce instead?

You can, but the homemade creamy jalapeño sauce is what makes these enchiladas extra special. If using store-bought, choose a mild green enchilada sauce and mix in a little sour cream for extra richness.

These Jalapeño Popper Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas with Creamy Sauce bring together everything you love about creamy, cheesy comfort food with just the right kick of spice. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, a meal-prep favorite, or a dish to impress at a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

The crispy bacon, rich cream cheese, and bold jalapeño flavor make every bite irresistible. And with the homemade creamy jalapeño sauce, you’ll never go back to store-bought enchiladas again.

Now it’s your turn to give these enchiladas a try! Snap a photo, tag @BoldBitesHub on social media, and share your delicious creation. We’d love to see how yours turn out!