This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is packed with flavor and a kick! The juicy chicken meets zesty jalapeños for a dish that’ll warm you up in the best way.
Trust me, your taste buds will be dancing! I love serving it with rice or tortillas, and yes, I admit, I might add a few extra jalapeños just for fun! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more moisture and flavor. They work well and are often cheaper!
Jalapeños: Depending on your spice tolerance, adjust the number of jalapeños. For a milder taste, remove the seeds and membranes. If you want it spicier, consider using serrano peppers instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key here, giving a strong flavor. However, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1/2 teaspoon per clove should do!
Cumin & Smoked Paprika: These spices build depth. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too, though it will lack that smoky flavor. A dash of liquid smoke can replicate it.
Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack are great choices when topping the chicken. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free cheese or skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here are the best steps to keep it juicy:
- Searing: This locks in moisture, so don’t skip this step! Make sure your skillet is hot to give the chicken that nice browned crust.
- Oven Cooking: Baking at 375°F is great for cooking the chicken through without drying it out. Always check the internal temperature (165°F) with a meat thermometer.
- Resting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after pulling it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
With these tips, you’ll have juicy and flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (adjust for spice preference)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack), optional for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you can have this spicy chicken ready in about 35 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot when your chicken is ready to bake!
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine the spices that will coat your chicken beautifully.
3. Season the Chicken:
Rub each chicken breast evenly with olive oil, then coat them with the spice mixture you just made. Make sure each piece gets a nice layer of flavor!
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown. This gives them a lovely crust!
5. Add Garlic and Jalapeños:
After searing, add the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños around the chicken in the skillet. Pour the chicken broth or water around the chicken; this will keep it moist while baking.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for safety.
7. Cheese Time (Optional):
If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken about 5 minutes before you pull it out of the oven so it can melt nicely.
8. Final Touches:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the spicy jalapeño chicken hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the delightful heat!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy jalapeño chicken!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw them completely beforehand. The best way is to place them in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before adding them. For extra heat, consider using more jalapeños or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mixture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken with the spice mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to add the jalapeños and garlic right before cooking for the best flavor!
