Description
A flavorful Jalapeno Chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy jalapeño sauce, baked to perfection. This dish combines smoky spices, fresh jalapeños, and melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a spicy yet creamy meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 3 fresh jalapeños, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the sliced jalapeños and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted and smooth. If a thicker sauce is desired, add the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Combine and Bake: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat; keep them for spicier flavor.
- Use an oven-safe skillet such as cast iron for the best results.
- Cornstarch slurry is optional but recommended if you prefer a thicker sauce.
- Let the chicken rest after baking to ensure juiciness.
- Can be served with rice, tortillas, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
