Make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce for a Flavorful Feast!

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce! This sizzling dish delivers a bold, zesty flavor that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Juicy chicken breasts are seared to perfection, then simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with the smoky heat of fresh jalapenos. The end result is a comforting, crave-worthy meal that packs a delicious punch.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 jalapenos, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 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
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning them with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili powder on both sides.

Sear Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Sauté Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions and jalapenos to the same skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cumin, cooking for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Make Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted. Then, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Add Cheese & Lime

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the fresh lime juice and red pepper flakes (if using), and let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes.

Combine Chicken & Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Simmer on low for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.

Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle the Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve the dish hot, with your choice of sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up that irresistible sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Best Sides to Complement the Dish

Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or with a side of roasted vegetables to balance the bold flavors. Crusty bread or warm tortillas are also excellent choices for sopping up the delectable sauce.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

For the perfect beverage pairing, consider a crisp, off-dry white wine like Riesling or Gewürztraminer to contrast the spiciness of the dish. Alternatively, a refreshing Mexican lager or a cooling margarita would also be excellent choices to complement the Tex-Mex-inspired flavors.

Variations of Spicy Jalapeno Chicken

Different Heat Levels

Adjust the heat level of this Spicy Jalapeno Chicken by varying the amount of jalapenos used. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping the peppers. For a bolder, fire-breathing experience, leave in some or all of the seeds. You can also substitute the jalapenos with other types of chili peppers to customize the spice level to your preference.

Vegetarian or Vegan Alternatives

To make a vegetarian or vegan version of this dish, simply swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, cubed tofu, or your favorite plant-based protein. Adjust the cooking times as needed, and be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Using Different Proteins

While chicken breasts are the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute other types of protein, such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even firm white fish like tilapia or cod. Adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure the protein is cooked through.

Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the fridge.

Best Methods for Reheating

To reheat the Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, you can either gently reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, checking and stirring at 30-second intervals until heated to your desired temperature.

FAQs about Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce

How can I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce the heat level of the Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, you can use fewer jalapenos, remove the seeds and membranes (where most of the heat resides), or substitute the jalapenos with milder bell peppers.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely before patting them dry and seasoning them. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use a combination of milk and sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to create a creamy, tangy sauce. Start with a 1:1 ratio of milk and sour cream/yogurt, and adjust to your desired consistency.

Is there a non-dairy option for the creamy sauce?

For a dairy-free version of the creamy sauce, you can use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, in place of the heavy cream. You may need to adjust the cooking time and add a touch of cornstarch or flour to help thicken the sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Spicy Honey Jalapeno Chicken Skewers
• BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Wings
• Cheesy Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Chicken
• Jalapeno Popper Stuffed Meatloaf

Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a bold, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for comforting, Tex-Mex-inspired cuisine. With its perfectly seared chicken, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of heat, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Serve it up with your favorite sides for a delicious and memorable meal.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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