This spicy jalapeño chicken recipe is a quick and easy dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. Made with tender chicken breast, fresh jalapeños, and a creamy sauce, this 30-minute meal…

Ingredients

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Instructions

Step 1

Gather all ingredients: chicken breast, olive oil, jalapeños, garlic, chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cilantro.

Step 1 image
Step 2

Season sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 2 image
Step 3

In the same skillet, add sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Reduce heat to low.

Step 4

Add chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until cream cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5

Return chicken to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Let simmer for 2 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

For best results

  • For a milder dish, remove all seeds from the jalapeños. For extra heat, leave some seeds in.
  • To save time, slice chicken breasts thinly and uniformly for even cooking.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach desired consistency.

Variations

  • Add a cup of cooked rice or pasta to make it a one-pan meal.
  • Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for juicier meat.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese.

Nutrition

  • Calories385 kcal
  • Total Fat28g
  • Saturated Fat14g
  • Cholesterol145mg
  • Sodium620mg
  • Total Carbohydrates5g
  • Dietary Fiber1g
  • Sugars2g
  • Protein32g

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work great and add extra juiciness. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.