Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
