Introduction

This Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce with a spicy kick from fresh jalapeños. It’s an easy recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table.

A white bowl filled with four pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken partially covered in a creamy yellow sauce. The sauce is thick and glossy, drizzled from a spoon held above the chicken, with bits of green herbs mixed into it. Green slices of fresh jalapeño and chopped cilantro are sprinkled on top, adding bright green spots of color. Two lime wedges rest on the side of the bowl, adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the overall image is bright and close up. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 jalapeños, sliced (adjust for spice level)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, ensuring it’s fully coated in the creamy jalapeño sauce. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a milder dish, remove the jalapeño seeds or reduce the number of peppers.
Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
Serve over rice, quinoa, or with warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it.

How to Serve

The image shows four golden brown chicken breasts covered in melted cheese and creamy sauce, arranged closely in a white pan. The sauce is thick and yellowish, speckled with bits of green pepper and onion. Fresh green cilantro leaves and sliced jalapeño rings are scattered on top, adding bright green color contrasts. Two lime wedges rest on the right side of the pan. A silver spoon is partially submerged in the sauce on the bottom right. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat level depends on the jalapeños used. Removing seeds reduces spiciness. You can also adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your heat preference.