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Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce Recipe

Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 5 reviews

Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked with a spicy jalapeno and garlic infusion, finished with a rich sauce made from cream, cream cheese, and cheddar. This dish balances the heat from jalapenos with smooth creamy textures and a hint of lime brightness, making it perfect for those who enjoy a savory, slightly spicy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 4 jalapenos, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Garnish & Optional

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin. Rub this spice blend evenly over the chicken breasts. Set aside to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
  4. Add Jalapenos and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped jalapenos. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and the jalapenos soften, releasing their mild heat.
  5. Deglaze with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the pan. This will lift any browned bits, infusing the sauce with extra flavor.
  6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook the sauce, stirring occasionally for 3-4 minutes until it thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
  7. Simmer Chicken in Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over them and let everything simmer together for 5-7 minutes. This allows the chicken to soak in the flavors and keeps it moist.
  8. Finish with Lime Juice: Stir in fresh lime juice just before serving to add a zesty brightness. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding salt, pepper, or optional red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve the spicy jalapeno chicken hot alongside your favorite sides.

Notes

  • For milder heat, remove all jalapeno seeds and membranes before chopping.
  • Add red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick if desired.
  • Use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter alternative to heavy cream for a different creamy consistency.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a side of steamed vegetables.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave.
  • Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spicy chicken, jalapeno chicken, creamy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, jalapeno cream sauce

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/spicy-jalapeno-chicken-with-creamy-sauce-recipe/