Spicy Jalapeño Chicken: A Fiesta of Flavor in Every Bite
Spice up your dinner routine with this easy and delicious Spicy Jalapeño Chicken! Tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, jalapeño-infused sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 3 fresh jalapeños, sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the chicken is evenly seasoned for maximum flavor penetration. Beginner Note: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning will help the seasoning adhere better.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet (preferably cast iron for even heat distribution and a good sear), heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the oil and butter are hot (but not smoking), add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. If you don’t have one, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink remaining. Beginner Note: Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Prepare the Jalapeño Sauce: In the same skillet (you can leave any rendered chicken fat in the skillet for added flavor), add the sliced jalapeños and cook for about 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften and release their aroma. Be careful not to burn them. Beginner Note: Be cautious when handling jalapeños. It’s a good idea to wear gloves to prevent irritation. Avoid touching your eyes or face after handling jalapeños.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Garlic can burn quickly, so watch it closely and reduce the heat if necessary. Beginner Note: Garlic should be fragrant, not browned or burnt.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors. Simmering also helps to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom that are packed with flavor. Beginner Note: Simmering means gently bubbling; the liquid should not be boiling vigorously.
- Add Cream, Cheese, and Spices: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and smoked paprika. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stirring continuously prevents the cheese from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and ensures that the sauce is smooth and lump-free. Beginner Note: Low heat is important at this stage to prevent the cheese from curdling.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember that the chicken broth may already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed. Beginner Note: Taste as you go and don’t be afraid to add more seasoning if needed.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the spicy jalapeño sauce generously over them. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to soak up the flavors and warm through. Beginner Note: Simmering allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce and become even more tender.
- Garnish: Garnish the Spicy Jalapeño Chicken with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. Cilantro adds a fresh flavor and a pop of color to the dish. Beginner Note: You can also use other garnishes, such as chopped green onions or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Serve: Serve the Spicy Jalapeño Chicken hot with rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or your favorite vegetables. The sauce is also delicious with tortillas for tacos or served over pasta.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeño amount for desired spice level.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through.
- Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides.