Description
A creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy banana pepper chicken dip that combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar, and tangy banana peppers for a flavorful appetizer or snack. This warm baked dip is perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, served with chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup banana peppers, chopped (adjust to spice preference)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or chives)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or spatula to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Main Ingredients and Seasonings: Add the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, chopped banana peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried dill (if using). Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish and spread it evenly for consistent baking.
- Bake the Dip: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is bubbly and the top turns slightly golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the dip from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes to thicken and avoid burns when serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top as garnish. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of banana peppers based on your preferred level of spice.
- For a milder version, remove seeds from banana peppers before chopping.
- Make sure cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing.
- This dip can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
