Description
This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts rubbed with a blend of spices, cooked in a creamy, cheesy sauce with sautéed jalapenos and onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines spicy, creamy, and savory elements all in one skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken and Spices
- 4 small chicken breasts (skinless and boneless)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Cooking Fats and Aromatics
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 white onion (finely chopped)
- 2 jalapenos (seeded and diced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup chicken broth
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
Garnish
- Sliced jalapenos (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Spice Mix: Combine cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl to create the seasoning blend.
- Season Chicken: Rub all sides of the chicken breasts evenly with the prepared spice mix to infuse flavor.
- Brown Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Brown the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add butter to the skillet, then sauté the finely chopped onion, diced jalapenos, and minced garlic for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and add the cream cheese. Reduce heat to low and stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup) until it melts into the sauce evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Return the browned chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top of the chicken.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 6-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese on top is melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced jalapenos before serving.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before dicing and garnishing.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of roasted vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 21 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
