Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet

This recipe is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor. The creamy jalapeno sauce is delicious spooned over tender chicken and your favorite sides.

Ingredients:

• For the chicken:
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
• For the sauce:
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep the chicken: In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, paprika (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Season the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the diced jalapenos and garlic, and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. If using, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Finish the dish: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the pan and spoon the creamy jalapeno sauce over them. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro (optional) and serve immediately with your favorite sides, like rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.

Tips:

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapeno peppers before dicing them. You can also start with less jalapeno and add more to taste.
• Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water before adding the cream cheese.
• Serve with: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
• Leftovers: Store leftover Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop.