Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

This Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a spicy, savory sauce infused with fresh jalapeños, garlic, and a hint of sweetness for balance. It’s a quick, easy, and satisfying recipe that pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packs a flavorful punch with fresh jalapeños and spices
• Quick and easy to prepare—ready in 30 minutes or less
• Customizable heat level depending on your spice tolerance
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep
• Works with different cuts of chicken—breasts, thighs, or tenders

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Fresh jalapeños, sliced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• Olive oil or sesame oil
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped green onions

Directions

this recipe

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic and sliced jalapeños until fragrant.
4. Stir in soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and vinegar, mixing well.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
6. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the skillet.
7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or use serrano peppers instead of jalapeños.
• Sweet and Spicy: Increase the honey for a more balanced heat-sweet flavor.
• Crispy Chicken: Coat the chicken in cornstarch before frying for a crispy texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you remove the seeds, which hold most of the heat.

Can I use canned jalapeños?

Yes, but fresh jalapeños offer a better texture and flavor.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer more flavor, but breasts also work well for a leaner option.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, rice vinegar is recommended, but apple cider vinegar works as a substitute.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and stir it into the sauce to thicken.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, grill the chicken separately and toss it in the sauce before serving.

How do I reduce the spice level?

Remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use fewer peppers to cut down the heat.

What can I serve with spicy jalapeño chicken?

It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge for easy reheating.

Conclusion

Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s easy to make and packed with bold, zesty flavors. Whether you love fiery heat or prefer to keep it mild, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste. Serve it with rice or vegetables for a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal right at home!

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