This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a zesty delight! It features tender chicken cooked with bold jalapeños and spices for a fiery kick that’s sure to please.
Honestly, the spice level is perfect if you love a little heat. I usually serve it with rice or tortillas, and it’s a crowd favorite. Just be ready for the tasty compliments! 🌶️
What I love most is how quickly it comes together. You can whip it up in no time and enjoy a delicious meal that feels special without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a change, try using chicken thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring the heat! If you prefer milder flavors, you can use bell peppers instead or remove the seeds from the jalapeños to lessen the spice. For more heat, consider using serrano peppers.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish with its aromatic qualities. You could use garlic powder in a pinch, but I recommend sticking with fresh for the best flavor. About a teaspoon of garlic powder would substitute well.
Chicken Broth: This adds richness to the sauce. If you have vegetable broth on hand, that’s a fine alternative! You could also use water, but it won’t pack the same punch.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a nice finish to the dish, but if you’re not a fan, you can skip it or replace it with parsley for a fresh touch.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping poultry juicy can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you out!
- First, pat the chicken dry. This helps it sear nicely instead of steam.
- Season well before cooking. This builds flavor right into the meat.
- When cooking, avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it brown on one side before turning it.
- Cook until just done (165°F internal temp). If you overcook, it will become dry.
- Rest the chicken after cooking, covered for a few minutes. This helps redistribute moisture.
By following these simple tips, your chicken will turn out juicy and delicious every time! Plus, this recipe’s spices will keep your taste buds happy. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2-3 fresh jalapeño peppers, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Sour cream or crema (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken takes approximately 25 minutes total: about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick dish perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help them brown nicely. Season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Make sure the spices coat the chicken evenly for great flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, until they are browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Jalapeños and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help release their flavors. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
4. Create the Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth and lime juice into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add extra flavor to your sauce! Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce a little bit.
5. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious jalapeño sauce over them. Allow everything to cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
6. Serve Your Dish:
Remove the skillet from heat. If you want, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped cilantro for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve the spicy jalapeño chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides like rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. A dollop of sour cream or crema on the side can help cool down the heat if you’re looking for balance!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken completely before cooking! You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quick thawing. Once thawed, pat it dry and season as directed!
What If I Don’t Like Jalapeños?
No problem! If jalapeños are too spicy for your taste, you can substitute with bell peppers for a milder flavor. Alternatively, use banana peppers for a slightly tangy twist without too much heat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to moisten the chicken if it has dried out a bit.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the jalapeño sauce and cook the chicken in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat before serving to enjoy a quick, flavorful meal later on!
