Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Recipe

Craving something spicy and flavorful that will set your taste buds on fire in the best way possible? Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is the dish you need! This recipe is perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their meal. Featuring tender chicken cooked with fresh jalapeños, garlic, and a blend of spices, this dish is both fiery and flavorful. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.

Equipment and Tools

Essential Kitchen Tools

Mixing bowls (for marinating the chicken)
Large skillet or frying pan
Sharp knife (for slicing jalapeños and chicken)
Cutting board
Spatula or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Preparing the Spicy Jalapeño Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the hot skillet. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Jalapeño Sauce

Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.
Add the Jalapeños: Add the sliced jalapeños to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Sauce

Add Spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and cumin, stirring to combine with the jalapeños and onions.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
Stir in the Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, allowing the sauce to thicken and become creamy.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Simmer Together: Let the chicken simmer in the jalapeño sauce for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.

Serving Suggestions

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with Cilantro: Before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken for a burst of freshness.
Serve: Serve the Spicy Jalapeño Chicken hot, alongside rice, tortillas, or a side of sautéed vegetables. The creamy, spicy sauce is perfect for spooning over your sides.

Tips for Success

Control the Heat Level

Adjust the Spice: For less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before cooking. If you want more spice, you can add an extra jalapeño or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Don’t Skip the Marinating Time

Flavor Infusion: Marinating the chicken is key to infusing it with flavor. Try to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for up to 4 hours.

Use Fresh Jalapeños

Fresh Ingredients: Fresh jalapeños provide the best flavor and heat. Avoid using pickled jalapeños, as they can alter the taste of the dish.

Variations to Try

Jalapeño Chicken Tacos

Taco Night: Slice the cooked chicken and serve it in warm tortillas, topped with the jalapeño sauce, shredded lettuce, and cheese for a delicious taco night.

Add Cheese for Extra Creaminess

Cheesy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) into the sauce before adding the chicken back to the skillet for a cheesy, creamy version.