This Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a zesty dish that’s sure to please! Juicy chicken gets a kick from fresh jalapeños and simple spices, making it full of flavor.
I love serving this with rice or tortillas, and it’s so quick to whip up. Just don’t forget a glass of water nearby—you might need it! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe due to their quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead for more flavor and moisture.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add that spicy kick! If you prefer milder heat, use banana peppers or poblano peppers. For a spicier dish, consider adding serrano peppers or leave some seeds in the jalapeños.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika give the chicken a rich flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too, but you might miss that smoky taste. Feel free to experiment with taco seasoning as a quick alternative.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a lovely garnish and adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be a great substitute, or simply skip it altogether!
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly So It’s Juicy?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but here’s a simple way to ensure it stays juicy. Start by patting the chicken dry — this helps it sear well. Rub your spice mix on both sides to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding chicken. A hot skillet seals in juices.
- Cook the chicken without moving it, letting it brown and develop flavor — around 6-7 minutes per side should do.
- Lastly, don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist when you slice into it.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious and juicy spicy jalapeño chicken every time!
Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 fresh jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 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
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time mixing the spices and cooking the chicken, resulting in a tasty dish ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better in the skillet. Set the chicken aside for now.
2. Make the Spicy Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until you have a fragrant paste.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the spicy mixture and rub it evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure they’re well coated to maximize flavor!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Add Lime and Rest:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for a zesty finish. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing to retain those delicious juices.
6. Serve:
If you like, garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your flavorful and spicy jalapeño chicken warm, served with rice, tortillas, or a crisp salad!
Your meal is ready to impress! Enjoy this delightful dish full of spice and flavor!
FAQ for Easy Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and can add more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they might take a minute or two longer to reach the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
If you want to reduce the heat, simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before chopping them, as these parts contain most of the heat. You can also use fewer jalapeños or replace them with sweet bell peppers for a milder flavor.
What Are Good Sides for This Chicken?
This spicy jalapeño chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or tortillas. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or lime juice to keep it moist.
