This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a tasty dish that packs a punch! With juicy chicken and flavorful jalapeños, it’s perfect for those who like a little heat in their meal.
Believe me, the spice is just right! I love serving it with rice to balance the flavors. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a little kick in their dinner? 🌶️
Making this dish is super simple. Just mix, cook, and enjoy! It’s a quick meal that brightens up any weeknight—easy peasy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs also work great and tend to be juicier.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add heat and flavor. For less spice, remove the seeds and membranes. You can use other peppers like serranos or even bell peppers for a milder dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a pungent kick to the marinade. You can substitute garlic powder if you’re short on fresh garlic; just use about a teaspoon instead.
Cheese: I love the creaminess that shredded cheese adds. Cheddar or Monterey Jack are favorites, but try pepper jack for extra spice or omit it completely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key for infusing flavor and keeping it moist. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes but a couple of hours or overnight is even better!
- Prepare the marinade and coat the chicken well, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
- Use a zip-lock bag for easy mixing and minimal cleanup. Remember to squeeze the air out when sealing.
- After marinating, let the chicken come to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
When cooking, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps achieve a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—this prevents overcooking. Happy cooking!
Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish will take about 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. If you choose to marinate the chicken for deeper flavor, allow an additional 30 minutes up to 2 hours for marinating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lime juice until well combined. Stir in the finely chopped jalapeños to give your marinade a nice kick.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a zip-lock bag. Pour the flavorful marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s all well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to soak up all those delicious flavors—longer if you have the time!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet, cooking them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), so you know they’re cooked perfectly through.
4. Add the Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken in the last 2 minutes of cooking. Cover the pan to help the cheese melt beautifully over the chicken.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot alongside rice, salad, or your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy jalapeño chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinating! The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quick thawing. Pat the chicken dry before marinating to help the flavors stick.
What if I Don’t Have Jalapeños?
No worries! You can substitute jalapeños with other types of peppers, like serrano for more heat or bell peppers for a milder option. You can also use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a similar spice kick.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to keep it moist.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
To reduce the spice level, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping them. You can also use less chili powder or pair the chicken with cooling sides like sour cream or a creamy salad to balance the heat!
