Description
This Jalapeño Chicken is the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and bold flavor. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection and smothered in a rich, cheesy jalapeño sauce that’s packed with just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a gathering, this dish will impress with its restaurant-quality taste and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2–3 fresh jalapeños, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions
Season and Sear the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cumin, and paprika on both sides.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for approximately 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Jalapeños and Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the jalapeños soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Add the fresh lime juice to the sauce, stirring to combine.
Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy jalapeño sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Serve the jalapeño chicken hot, garnished with additional sliced jalapeños or chopped cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For a milder version, remove the jalapeño seeds before cooking.
- Pepper jack cheese can be used instead of cheddar for an extra spicy kick.
- Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired