Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a delicious blend of tangy, spicy, and cheesy flavors all in one warm, comforting appetizer. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual snacking, it combines tender chicken with creamy cheeses and zesty banana peppers for a crowd-pleasing dish.

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 smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the spices evenly.
4. Step 4: Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, mozzarella, and cheddar cheese until thoroughly combined.
5. Step 5: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly, smoothing the top.
6. Step 6: Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Optional: Broil for 2 to 3 minutes to lightly brown the top for extra color and texture.
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted bread for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dip mixture.
• Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheeses for a lighter version without sacrificing much flavor.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to increase protein and decrease fat.
• Try smoked gouda or add chipotle powder for a smoky twist.
• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.

Storage

Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly again, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. This dip can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dip a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving to save time.

What can I serve with this dip?

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

Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 116 reviews

Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a rich and flavorful baked appetizer combining tender shredded chicken, tangy banana peppers, and a blend of creamy cheeses with a touch of smoky paprika and garlic. Perfectly balanced with mild spice and cheesy goodness, this dip is ideal for game days, parties, or casual gatherings, served warm with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

• Author: Rami
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 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 Cream Base

• 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, to taste
• 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 prepare it for the dip mixture.
2. Mix Cream Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until smooth and well blended to create the creamy base.
3. Add Spices: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the creamy mixture. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.
4. Combine Main Ingredients: Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped banana peppers, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese. Stir gently but completely to blend all ingredients together.
5. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly and smoothing the top for uniform baking.
6. Bake: Bake the dip uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until it becomes hot and bubbly throughout.
7. Optional Broil: For a slightly browned and crispy top, broil the dip for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
8. Cool and Garnish: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley to add a fresh touch.
9. Serve: Serve the dip warm alongside tortilla chips, crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping.

Notes

• This dip keeps well refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.
• Can be frozen for longer storage, though texture might slightly change after thawing.
• Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot banana peppers or adding jalapeños for extra heat.
• For a lighter version, substitute reduced-fat cheeses and Greek yogurt for sour cream.
• Vegetarian alternative: replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.
• Serve with gluten-free chips or fresh veggies for a gluten-free option.
• Broiling is optional but adds a delicious golden crust.

Keywords: banana pepper dip, chicken dip, creamy chicken dip, baked cheese dip, party appetizer, easy game day recipe, spicy chicken dip