Description
This Jalapeno Chicken Recipe is a flavorful and spicy main course made with tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked in a savory garlic and jalapeno infused sauce. Enhanced with smoked paprika, cumin, and fresh lime juice, this quick stovetop dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s gluten-free and can be topped optionally with cheddar cheese for added richness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Spices and Vegetables
- 3 fresh jalapenos, sliced thin (seeds removed for less heat)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the chicken pieces.
- Cook chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Sauté garlic and jalapenos: Add the minced garlic and sliced jalapenos to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld with the chicken.
- Add spices: Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken mixture. Stir well to coat all pieces thoroughly with the spices.
- Simmer with liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and lime juice. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Optionally, top with shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor.
Notes
- For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapenos or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or tortillas for a complete meal.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
