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jalapeno chicken recipe

Jalapeno Chicken

Prep 10 minutes
Cook 20 minutes
Total 30 minutes
With spicy jalapeños and savory chicken! So bold, so delicious. A fiery meal for spice lovers!
5 stars (1 ratings)
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Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless , skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 4-5 fresh jalapenos , seeded and diced (leave seeds for extra heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 medium onion , finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper , diced (for color and sweetness)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp lime juice (approximately 1-2 limes)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp honey (balances the heat)
  • Substitution options:
  • Chicken thighs work beautifully for more moisture
  • Serrano peppers or poblanos can replace jalapenos based on your heat preference
  • Lemon juice can substitute for lime in a pinch
  • Brown sugar or maple syrup can replace honey

Instructions

  • Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
    Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels – this crucial step helps achieve better browning, as moisture is the enemy of a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper, which will help draw out the chicken's natural flavors when cooked.
    Step 2: Prepare the Jalapeno Mixture
    Combine diced jalapenos, minced garlic, chopped onion, and bell pepper in a bowl. For heat-sensitive diners, remember that the seeds and ribs contain most of the capsaicin (heat compound), so adjust accordingly. Pro tip: wear disposable gloves when handling jalapenos to prevent the oils from burning your skin or accidentally transferring to your eyes later.
    Step 3: Sear the Chicken
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Allow them to develop a golden-brown crust before flipping, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. This caramelization adds depth of flavor that makes this jalapeno chicken recipe truly exceptional.
    Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
    Remove chicken and set aside. In the same pan, add the jalapeno mixture and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and aromatic. The vegetables will absorb all those delicious browned bits from the chicken, creating a flavor-packed base for your dish.
    Step 5: Combine and Finish
    Return chicken to the pan. Add lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Stir in honey to balance the heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce has slightly thickened. Cooking the spices activates their essential oils, intensifying their flavor profile throughout the dish.
    Step 6: Garnish and Serve
    Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh cilantro just before serving. The bright, citrusy notes of the herb will complement the spicy jalapenos perfectly and add visual appeal to your finished dish.
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