This Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken is cooked with zesty jalapeños and flavorful spices for a delicious meal!
It’s so easy to make that even I can throw it together after a long day. Serve it with rice or tortillas, and you’ll be enjoying a fiesta in no time! 🌶️🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. I find thighs tend to be juicier. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can substitute with chicken tenders or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Jalapeños: These peppers are key for that spicy kick. If you prefer less heat, you can remove the seeds or substitute with anaheim peppers, which are milder. For an extra kick, consider using serrano peppers.
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika add depth of flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can give a similar effect. Feel free to mix in other spices like cayenne for a bigger heat punch!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for brightness. If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different.
How Do You Cook Juicy Chicken Pieces?
Cooking chicken to the right tenderness can be tricky, but here’s a simple method to keep it juicy. The key is controlling your heat and timing.
- Start with medium-high heat to get a good sear on the chicken. This locks in the juices.
- Cook only until the chicken is browned on the outside—about 5-7 minutes. Overcooking will make it tough.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a minute after cooking to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken for Easy Weeknights
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2-3 fresh jalapeño peppers, thinly sliced (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for extra depth)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes making this flavorful dish—a quick and easy option for your busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will create a base of flavor for the chicken.
2. Add Garlic and Jalapeños:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and thinly sliced jalapeños. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—keep an eye on it!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season the chicken with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so that the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
4. Simmer for Flavor:
If you’re using tomato paste, add it now along with the chicken broth or water. Stir to combine, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. This will keep the chicken tender and allow the flavors to deepen.
5. Add Lime Juice and Finish:
Once the chicken is cooked through, squeeze in the juice of a lime and stir everything together. Let it cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skillet from heat and, if you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro on top for an extra pop of flavor. Serve the spicy jalapeño chicken warm with rice, tortillas, or your choice of side. Enjoy your flavorful weeknight meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result, or chicken tenders for a quicker cooking option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider using firm tofu or tempeh.
How Can I Reduce the Spiciness?
If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before slicing. Alternatively, you can substitute jalapeños with bell peppers or use fewer peppers to adjust the heat level to your liking.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge after it cools. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
What Goes Well as a Side Dish?
This spicy jalapeño chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal.
