Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet is a dish that brings both comfort and a zesty kick to your dinner table. This recipe transforms your routine with a rich, velvety sauce that envelops tender chicken, infused with the warm spice of jalapeños. Imagine the aroma as you sauté garlic and onions, leading to a flavorful meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also warms the heart. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this one-pan wonder simplifies cooking while ensuring a delicious experience.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are several reasons why you’ll adore this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet: It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for Creamy Jalapeno Chicken for Busy Weeknights. The creamy jalapeno sauce adds a delightful kick, while the tender chicken breast provides the perfect protein boost. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You can easily customize the spice level by adjusting the jalapeños, and it pairs beautifully with rice or pasta. This recipe stands out as a Quick Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Recipe that your family will love!

Ingredients for Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

Gather these items:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust for spice level)
1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

How to Make Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet Step-by-Step

Step 1: Slice chicken breasts into cutlets or bite-sized pieces. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and jalapeños; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth. Increase heat to medium-high and scrape up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Whisk until cheese is melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Return seared chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes to warm through.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm with rice, pasta, or vegetables.

Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet: 5 Easy Steps to Flavor - Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Adjust jalapeño quantity to manage spice level.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
For a healthier option, consider using low-fat cream or substituting with Greek yogurt.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

Here are some great serving ideas: Pair this Chicken Skillet with Creamy Jalapeno Sauce with fluffy rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. This dish also makes a wonderful filling for tacos or burritos, enhancing your favorite Mexican recipes.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

To store, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

What is Creamy Jalapeno Chicken?

Creamy Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring succulent chicken cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with jalapeño peppers, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Can I make Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving to ensure the chicken remains tender and the sauce creamy. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the chicken is not overcrowded in the skillet while searing, as this can affect browning. Also, adjust the jalapeño amount based on your spice preference.

Variations of Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet You Can Try

If you want to change things up, consider these variations: Add black beans and corn for a heartier meal. For a healthier twist, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood option, or try using a plant-based protein for a vegan version.

Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet: 5 Easy Steps to Flavor

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Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet – transform your dinner routine with a dish that promises both a delightful kick and unparalleled comfort. Tender chicken in a rich, velvety sauce infused with zesty jalapeno warmth.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt (divided)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (divided)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 fresh jalapeños, sliced (adjust for spice level)
1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

Slice chicken breasts into cutlets or bite-sized pieces. Season with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer chicken to a plate.
Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté diced onion for 5-7 minutes until soft. Add garlic and jalapeños; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth. Increase heat to medium-high and scrape up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese. Whisk until cheese is melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Return seared chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes to warm through.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve warm with rice, pasta, or vegetables.