This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken pieces are mixed with zesty jalapeños for a fun kick that everyone will love. It’s a true crowd-pleaser!
Cooking this dish is a breeze! You just sauté the chicken, add your spices, and let the magic happen. I usually serve it with rice – it balances the spice perfectly. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. Thighs offer a juicier texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use chicken tenders or even tofu for a vegetarian dish.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a nice kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, use bell peppers instead. For more heat, consider using serrano peppers or adding some crushed red pepper flakes.
Garlic: Garlic brings great flavor to this dish. Don’t skip it! If you’re not a fan, you can reduce the amount, or use garlic powder as a substitute.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky taste. If unavailable, regular paprika can work, although it won’t have the same depth. You could also try chili powder for some extra flavor.
Cilantro: It’s perfect for garnish! If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or green onions can be good substitutes for a fresh touch.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken well is crucial to a delicious dish! Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a hot skillet for a nice sear on the chicken. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Stir occasionally, and make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adding lime juice at the end helps keep the chicken moist and adds fresh flavor.
If you follow these tips, your chicken will turn out tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2-3 fresh jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish that can fit right into your busy schedule!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. This builds a tasty base for the chicken!
2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños:
Next, add the minced garlic and finely chopped jalapeños to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes while stirring often. The fragrance will get your taste buds excited!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now it’s time to add the chicken pieces. Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together really well so the chicken is coated in those yummy spices.
4. Stir & Brown the Chicken:
Let the chicken cook for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook it until it’s no longer pink inside and has a nice golden-brown color on the outside. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Finish with Lime:
Once the chicken is cooked, squeeze the juice of one lime over the top and give it a good stir. The lime adds a refreshing brightness to the dish!
6. Garnish & Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your spicy chicken with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve it hot with rice, tortillas, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy the flavorful explosion and the kick of spice!
Happy cooking! Your Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is ready to be devoured!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or for a quicker option, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before cooking for the best results.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
If you’re looking to reduce the heat, simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping, as that’s where most of the heat resides. You can also use fewer jalapeños or substitute them with bell peppers for a milder flavor.
What Should I Serve with Jalapeño Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or even quinoa. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the heat and add some freshness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of lime juice for added flavor!
