Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 12 reviews

This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful and creamy skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of spices, cooked in a rich cheesy jalapeno sauce. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, it’s a comforting meal with a spicy kick and gooey melted cheese all made in one pan for easy cleanup.

  • Total Time: 31 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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)

Sauces and Cheese

  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth
  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded, divided)
  • Sliced jalapenos (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will season the chicken to infuse it with warm and spicy flavors.
  2. Season the Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated with the spices for maximum flavor.
  3. Brown the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet. Then add finely chopped onion, diced jalapenos, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  5. Create the Cheese Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add cream cheese to the skillet and lower the heat to low. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely, about 2 to 3 minutes, forming a creamy sauce base.
  6. Add Cheese to Sauce: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup) into the sauce until melted and well combined, providing richness and depth to the sauce.
  7. Combine and Cover: Return the browned chicken breasts into the skillet, nestling them into the cheesy sauce. Top the chicken with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly over the chicken.
  8. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on low heat for 6 to 8 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the cheese topping to melt perfectly.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with sliced jalapenos on top for an extra pop of spice and a fresh, vibrant look. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust jalapeno quantity or keep seeds if you prefer more heat.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
  • For a lower-fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and reduce cheddar cheese slightly.
  • Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 21 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/one-pan-cheesy-jalapeno-chicken-recipe/