Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a flavorful and comforting appetizer perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. It combines tender shredded chicken with tangy banana peppers and rich cheeses for a deliciously spicy and creamy treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 1 cup chopped banana peppers (mild or hot, to taste)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the creamy mixture. Stir well to incorporate the spices evenly.
4. Step 4: Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well combined.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is heated through and bubbly.
7. Step 7: For a golden-brown top, optionally broil the dip for 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with your favorite chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

Tips & Variations

• Use mild or hot banana peppers depending on your spice preference to control the heat level.
• For extra richness, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Substitute cooked turkey for chicken to create a different flavor profile.
• Make it ahead and refrigerate the mixture before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh banana peppers instead of jarred?

Yes, fresh banana peppers can be used, but roasting or pickling them slightly beforehand will help enhance their flavor and soften their texture.

Is this dip suitable for freezing?

While you can freeze the dip before baking, the texture of the cream cheese and sour cream might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze in small portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a deliciously cheesy and mildly spicy appetizer combining shredded chicken with tangy banana peppers, cream cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and cheddar. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, it’s an inviting dish to serve warm with chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

• Author: Isla
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Peppers

• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
• 1 cup chopped banana peppers (mild or hot, to taste)

Dairy and Creamy Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
3. Add Seasonings: Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
4. Incorporate Chicken and Cheeses: Gently fold in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Transfer and Smooth: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even baking.
6. Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the dip is hot, bubbly, and the cheeses have melted thoroughly.
7. Optional Broil: For a lightly browned, golden top, broil the dip for 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool slightly for safe and optimal serving texture. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
9. Serve: Serve the warm dip with chips, crackers, or toasted bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.

Notes

• Use mild or hot banana peppers depending on your heat preference.
• Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut for cooked shredded chicken breast.
• For a richer flavor, try using smoked cheddar cheese.
• To make ahead, prepare the dip mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Broiling time is optional but adds a flavorful golden crust; watch carefully to avoid burning.
• Serve with a variety of dippers like pita chips, vegetable sticks, or baguette slices for added variety.

Keywords: banana pepper chicken dip, creamy chicken dip, baked chicken dip, party appetizer, cheesy chicken dip