Spicy Jalapeño Chicken (Grill or Stovetop)
Craving a dish that brings the heat and flavor to your dinner table? Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is the perfect recipe to spice up your weeknight meals. It’s bold, zesty, and oh-so-satisfying—get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Imagine tender chicken infused with the smoky heat of jalapeños, balanced with a hint of lime and a touch of garlic. Each bite is a fiery fiesta for your senses, making it a go-to favorite for spice lovers. And don’t worry, you can adjust the heat level to suit your palate!
This recipe is quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a dish that’s sure to turn an ordinary dinner into a memorable occasion. Pair it with rice, tacos, or a crisp salad for a meal that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
Ready to bring some excitement to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe and whip up this irresistible Spicy Jalapeño Chicken. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor: A marinade full of soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and jalapeños ensures every bite is bursting with taste.
- Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat to your liking by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Quick and Versatile: Ready in under an hour and perfect for tacos, rice bowls, salads, and more.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week with minimal effort.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients for Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful.
- Cornstarch: Helps create a light crust on the chicken when cooked.
- Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth to the marinade. Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the spiciness and adds a hint of caramelized sweetness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the marinade with its robust aroma.
- Jalapeños: Sliced jalapeños bring heat and a subtle crunch to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
- Water: Helps dilute the marinade for even coating.
Variations for Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
- Add Citrus: Include lime juice for a tangy twist.
- Use Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it Sweeter: Use honey instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Add Veggies: Cook with bell peppers or onions for extra texture and flavor.
- Extra Spicy: Double the jalapeños or include a dash of cayenne pepper.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the jalapeño slices and stir to combine. This marinade is the key to the dish’s spicy-sweet flavor profile.
2. Tenderize the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs on a cutting board and trim any excess fat. Lightly pat them dry with paper towels. For even cooking, you can gently pound them to an even thickness.
3. Coat the Chicken
Sprinkle cornstarch evenly over the chicken thighs and toss them until fully coated. The cornstarch creates a beautiful crust when the chicken is cooked.
4. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl of marinade, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
5. Cook the Chicken
Stovetop Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
- Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, and place them in the hot skillet.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Add the remaining marinade to the skillet and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to create a flavorful sauce.
Grilling Directions:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (375-450°F) and grease the grates.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Baste with the marinade during the last few minutes for extra flavor.
How to Serve Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
This versatile dish can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Over Rice: Pair with steamed white rice or cilantro lime rice for a complete meal.
- In Tacos: Shred the chicken and serve in tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado.
- In Bowls: Layer with rice, black beans, and a dollop of sour cream.
- With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted or sautéed vegetables.
Storing and Reheating Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
- Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the chicken’s juiciness.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken FAQs
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I prep this in advance?
Definitely! The chicken can marinate in the fridge for up to 8 hours, making it a great option for meal prep.
Conclusion
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it over rice, in tacos, or as part of a hearty salad, this versatile recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Give it a try and let me know how you love to serve it!
