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Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet Recipe

Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 8 reviews

This Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet is a flavorful and comforting dish featuring juicy chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a rich, creamy sauce infused with spicy jalapeños, sharp cheddar cheese, and a hint of smoky paprika. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that satisfies with a spicy kick and creamy texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1–2 sliced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat, optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare and cook chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
  3. Create the creamy sauce: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add cheese and finish sauce: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning and coating them thoroughly with the creamy jalapeño sauce. Let everything warm together for 1-2 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top before serving.

Notes

  • To reduce the heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeños before slicing.
  • Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest, creamiest sauce.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • For a lower-fat option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Jalapeño Chicken, Spicy Chicken Skillet, Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken, Easy Weeknight Chicken Recipe

Find it online: https://zarameals.com/creamy-jalapeno-chicken-skillet-recipe/