Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip Recipe
Creamy Banana Pepper Chicken Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a blend of cheeses with tangy banana peppers and subtle spices. Baked until hot and bubbly, this dip offers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and savory flavors, ideal for parties, game days, or casual snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Ingredients
Scale
Dip 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
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Seasonings: Incorporate garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the creamy mixture, stirring thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
- Combine Main Ingredients: Fold in the shredded chicken breast, chopped banana peppers, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese, mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer and Smooth: Spoon the dip mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for even cooking and presentation.
- Bake the Dip: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the dip is hot, bubbly, and cheeses are melted.
- Optional Broil: For a lightly browned, golden top, broil the dip on high for an additional 2 to 3 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, then serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, toasted bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- Use mild or hot banana peppers depending on your spice preference.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and boost protein.
- Try reduced-fat cheese and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- For extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- This dip keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creamy texture.
- Freeze for longer storage but note texture may change slightly upon thawing.
- Vegetarian option: replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or artichokes.
- Serve with gluten-free chips or veggies for gluten-free diets.
Keywords: banana pepper chicken dip, creamy chicken dip, party appetizer, baked cheese dip, spicy chicken dip, game day dip
