Spicy and Savory Jalapeno Chicken

Name: Spicy and Savory Jalapeno Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces; ¼ cup cornstarch; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; ⅓ cup soy sauce; ⅓ cup water; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; ½ yellow onion, diced; 2 large jalapeno peppers, sliced into thin rounds; Sesame seeds, for garnish; Cooked white rice, for serving

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a dish that feels like takeout but is even better because you made it yourself. Jalapeno Chicken is one of those recipes. I remember the first time I tried making a spicy stir-fry at home—I was worried about getting the balance just right. But with this simple method, even a beginner can create a dish packed with flavor, a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami.

This easy sheet pan dinner (or skillet dinner) is great for those busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s quick and healthy. The recipe brings together tender chicken, crisp jalapenos, and a rich, savory sauce in a way that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. Plus, it can be customized for any spice preference, making it perfect for the whole family.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Jalapeno Chicken stands out because it’s both bold in flavor and easy to make. Here’s why it’s worth trying:

Beginner-friendly: The cooking steps are straightforward, making this a great recipe for those new to the kitchen.
Quick and efficient: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Customizable heat: You control the spice level by adjusting how you prepare the jalapenos.

Balanced flavors: A mix of sweet, salty, and spicy notes creates a well-rounded taste.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option.

Ingredients and Their Role

Understanding why each ingredient is in the dish helps you learn how to cook with confidence.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best for flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts work if you prefer a leaner option.
Cornstarch: Helps create a crispy coating on the chicken when pan-fried.
Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami to the sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce can be used if needed.

Brown sugar: Balances the heat from the jalapenos with a slight sweetness.
Sesame oil: Brings a deep, nutty aroma to the dish.
Garlic: Enhances the overall savory depth of the sauce.

Onion: Provides sweetness and texture, making the dish heartier.
Jalapeno peppers: The star ingredient! Adjust the spice level by removing the seeds and ribs for a milder taste.
White rice: A neutral base to soak up the delicious sauce. Swap with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch, salt, and pepper. This helps create a light, crispy texture when cooked. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, water, brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves completely. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onions and jalapeno slices. Cook for 4-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.

Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir everything together. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the jalapeno chicken over a bowl of cooked rice. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for extra crunch. Serve hot and enjoy!

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to tell if the chicken is done: Slice a piece in half—it should be white throughout with no pink in the center. A meat thermometer should read 165°F.
Preventing overcooked veggies: Cook the onions and jalapenos just until softened. If they overcook, they might lose their crunch.
Making it less spicy: Remove the seeds and white ribs from the jalapenos before slicing.

Enhancing crispiness: If you want extra-crispy chicken, use a mix of cornstarch and flour for coating.
No fresh garlic? Substitute with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

With rice or noodles: White rice is classic, but brown rice, jasmine rice, or even ramen noodles work well.

Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Side dishes: Pair with steamed broccoli, stir-fried green beans, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
Extra crunch: Add chopped cashews or peanuts on top for texture.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture of the chicken and sauce can change after thawing.

Jalapeno Chicken is the perfect quick and healthy meal for busy weeknights. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this dish is easy to customize and full of bold flavors. If you try this lemon herb chicken recipe alternative, let us know how it turned out in the comments!

What’s your favorite way to serve spicy chicken dishes? Let’s chat in the comments below!

FAQ About Jalapeno Chicken

Is Jalapeno Chicken very spicy?

The spice level depends on how you prepare the jalapenos. Leaving the seeds and ribs in will make it hotter, while removing them creates a milder flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but they may be slightly less juicy than thighs. To keep them tender, avoid overcooking.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the sauce from thickening too much.

What can I serve with Jalapeno Chicken?

This dish pairs well with white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or even stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

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