I'm in the same situation, I only have one key and the dealer want like $75 for the key and $125 to program it

 

Ace hardware does it

 

You need two working keys to program a third. You can get the blanks online (I got mine from a place called Transponder Island -- Google it). A passive (non-remote) key blank is quite cheap. About $15 IIRC.

I believe you have no choice but to pony up the $125 for the dealer to program it, since they need to hook up to the computer (and Chrysler?) to do so.

Your best bet is probably to source the blank online, have it cut, and then take it in to have it programmed. While you're at it, I would order two blanks and have them both cut (and program the third yourself) so if you ever lose one you're still good.