Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a perfect blend of rich, cheesy goodness with a tangy kick from banana peppers. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it makes a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game days, parties, or casual gatherings.

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 cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Step 3: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir well to evenly incorporate the spices.
4. Step 4: Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese until everything is evenly mixed.
5. Step 5: Transfer the dip mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the dip is hot and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes to achieve a lightly browned top.
8. Step 8: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dip mixture.
• Use reduced-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
• Try smoked gouda or chipotle powder to add a smoky flavor twist.
• Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes for a vegetarian alternative.
• Fresh banana peppers reduce sodium compared to jarred ones and offer a fresher taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the dip in the oven or microwave until bubbly, stirring occasionally to keep it creamy. The dip can be frozen for longer storage, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip mixture in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable sticks like celery, carrots, and cucumber for a crunchy contrast.

Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 136 reviews

Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer featuring shredded chicken, tangy banana peppers, and a blend of creamy cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. This dip offers a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy elements, making it ideal for social gatherings, game days, or casual snacking with chips or fresh vegetables.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

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 Components

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

Seasonings

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

Garnish (Optional)

• Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated, creating a rich base for the dip.
3. Add Seasonings: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the creamy mixture. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices, enhancing the depth of flavor.
4. Combine Main Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, shredded mozzarella, and shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy seasoned base. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Bake the Dip: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly throughout.
6. Optional Broiling: For a light golden brown and slightly crispy top, broil the dip for 2 to 3 minutes after baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
7. Cool and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and let it cool slightly to thicken up. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish and added color.
8. Serve: Serve the warm dip with tortilla chips, crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks such as celery, carrots, or cucumber for dipping enjoyment.

Notes

• Use mild or hot banana peppers based on your preferred spice level.
• For extra heat, add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Substitute reduced-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt to lower fat content.
• Make vegetarian by replacing chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly; stir occasionally to maintain creaminess.
• Freeze for longer storage, but texture may slightly change upon thawing.

Keywords: banana pepper chicken dip, creamy chicken dip, baked cheese dip, party appetizer, Tex-Mex dip, chicken cheese dip