Make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Tonight for a Flavorful Dinner!

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with our mouthwatering Spicy Jalapeno Chicken recipe! This dish is a fiery fiesta of flavor, blending tender chicken, zesty jalapenos, and a symphony of spices that will transport your senses straight to the heart of the Southwest. Whether you’re craving a kick of heat or simply love bold, irresistible dishes, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings / For Serving:

• Cooked rice or quinoa
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped cilantro
• Avocado slices
• Lime wedges
• Tortilla chips

Cooking Instructions for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

Prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels and seasoning it generously with salt and pepper.

Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and jalapenos, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Now, it’s time to brown the chicken. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Once the chicken has a nice sear, toss in the chopped red bell pepper and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly softened.

To bring all the flavors together, add the diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, then sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Serve your Spicy Jalapeno Chicken over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa, and top it with your desired toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and crispy tortilla chips.

Tips for Perfecting Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

If you prefer a milder heat level, start with just one jalapeno pepper and taste the dish before adding more. You can always increase the amount of jalapenos for a bolder, spicier flavor. Remember, the size and maturity of the peppers can also affect the heat level, so be sure to taste a small piece before incorporating them into the recipe.

For meal prep and storage, this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken dish can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for longer-term storage, so feel free to make a double batch and enjoy it throughout the week or stash some portions in the freezer for a quick, flavorful dinner on a busy night.

Nutritional Benefits of Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

Not only is this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken bursting with bold, mouthwatering flavors, but it’s also a nutritious meal that can be part of a balanced diet. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue. The black beans and corn in the recipe provide complex carbohydrates, fiber, and a range of essential vitamins and minerals.

The jalapeno peppers, chili powder, and other spices in this dish also offer potential health benefits. Capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their heat, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may even boost metabolism. Additionally, the spices used in this recipe can help enhance the dish’s overall nutritional profile and provide an array of antioxidants.

Variations and Substitutions for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

While the Spicy Jalapeno Chicken recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap the chicken for diced tofu or sautéed mushrooms. You can also use different types of beans, such as pinto or kidney beans, in place of the black beans.

To change up the flavor profile, try substituting the chili powder with smoked paprika, cumin, or even a blend of Tex-Mex seasonings. If you want to add more complexity, consider incorporating a splash of lime juice, a dollop of pesto, or a sprinkle of queso fresco. The possibilities are endless for making this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken your own signature dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
• Creamy Steak Pasta
• Baked Mozzarella Chicken

FAQs about Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, and if so, how should I adjust the cooking time?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken. However, it’s best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for even results. If you need to cook it from frozen, increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, you may want to cover the skillet while cooking to help retain moisture.

What type of jalapeno peppers should I use for this recipe, and do they vary in heat?

For Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, it’s best to use fresh, firm jalapeno peppers. The heat level can vary between individual peppers, so it’s advisable to taste one before using. Look for peppers that are bright green and free of blemishes. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for smaller, younger jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy. Conversely, larger, mature jalapenos can pack more heat. Remember, you can always adjust the amount used in the recipe to suit your spice tolerance.

How can I make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken ahead of time for meal prep?

To prepare Spicy Jalapeno Chicken ahead of time, you can cook the entire dish and then allow it to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to meal prep individual portions, divide the chicken into containers with your choice of side (like rice or quinoa) for easy grab-and-go meals. You can also freeze the cooked dish for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What are some creative ways to repurpose leftover Spicy Jalapeno Chicken?

Leftover Spicy Jalapeno Chicken can be transformed into several delicious meals. You can make spicy chicken tacos by shredding the chicken and serving it in tortillas with toppings like avocado and sour cream. Or, add it to a salad for a protein boost with a kick. Another idea is to mix it into a quesadilla with cheese and other vegetables for a quick snack. You could even use it as a filling for burritos or enchiladas. The possibilities are endless for enjoying your leftovers!

Conclusion

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with the bold, irresistible flavors of Spicy Jalapeno Chicken! This dish is a celebration of Southwestern flair, packed with tender chicken, fiery jalapenos, and a medley of spices that will transport your senses to a vibrant culinary fiesta. Whether you’re craving a spicy kick or simply love bold, comforting meals, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to indulge in a sizzling, flavor-packed adventure!

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