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Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce Recipe

Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce Recipe

5 from 19 reviews

This Spicy Jalapeno Chicken with Creamy Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce infused with jalapenos, garlic, and spices. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat balanced with smooth, cheesy goodness, garnished with fresh cilantro and a hint of lime for brightness.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 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)

Sauce

  • 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 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

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and ground cumin. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Set aside to marinate briefly.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté onions: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
  4. Add garlic and jalapenos: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped jalapenos. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the jalapenos soften, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Deglaze with chicken broth: Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet, releasing any browned bits stuck to the pan for extra flavor.
  6. Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth and creamy.
  7. Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer gently in the sauce for 5-7 minutes to absorb the flavors and stay juicy.
  8. Finish with lime and garnish: Stir in fresh lime juice just before removing from heat. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and, if desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes for extra heat. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Remove jalapeno seeds to reduce the spiciness or leave some seeds in for extra heat.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar for best creaminess and flavor.
  • Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to even thickness if they are uneven to promote even cooking.
  • Leftover sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, Creamy Jalapeno Chicken, Jalapeno Chicken with Cream Cheese Sauce, Spicy Chicken Dinner, Jalapeno Cream Sauce, Easy Chicken Recipe