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Close-up of a delicious Spicy Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet Dinner, showcasing juicy chicken and a creamy, spicy sauce.

Spicy Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet Dinner

This Spicy Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet Dinner is a flavor-packed meal featuring tender chicken in a luscious, creamy sauce with a fiery kick of jalapeños. It's easy to make and perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Serve over rice, quinoa, or tortillas for a satisfying and customizable meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 jalapeños, seeded and minced adjust to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese or cheddar
  • 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet (cast iron recommended)
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • spatula
  • wooden spoon
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces.
  2. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the minced garlic and jalapeños and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Reduce the heat to low.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and softened cream cheese until smooth and melted.
  9. Add the shredded Monterey Jack cheese and stir until melted and the sauce is creamy.
  10. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
  11. Bring the sauce back to a gentle simmer.
  12. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  13. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a richer flavor. Adjust the jalapeño level to your preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently. Make sure cream cheese is softened before adding to the sauce to prevent curdling.