One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that brings a little spice to your dinner table, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re juggling a busy weeknight or hosting family and friends, this dish will impress everyone with its cheesy goodness and zesty kick. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Imagine serving up tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy jalapeño cheese sauce. The combination of melty cheese and spicy jalapeños makes this meal a new favorite for your family. Plus, since everything cooks in just one pan, cleanup is a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: No need to dirty multiple dishes; everything cooks together beautifully.
• Quick and easy: Prep time is only 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly flavors: The cheesy goodness appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable spice level: Adjust the jalapeños to suit your taste—fresh for more heat or pickled for a milder flavor.
• Delicious leftovers: Make extra for easy meal prep; this dish reheats well!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delicious One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe. With just a few staples from your pantry and fridge, you’ll be on your way to a scrumptious meal!

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Variations

This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey cutlets or chicken thighs instead of breasts for different textures.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with hearty mushrooms or chickpeas for a meatless option.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different kinds of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick!

How to Make One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven ready first ensures that everything cooks evenly when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts on both sides. Seasoning well enhances the chicken’s flavor while it’s cooking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. This step locks in moisture and adds great flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Jalapeño Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. When it’s melted, sauté minced garlic and sliced jalapeños for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth; this creates a rich base for our sauce.

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth

Pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously until the sauce is creamy. Return the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet and nestle them into that delectable sauce.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over both the chicken and sauce. It’s time for cheesy goodness! Now transfer your skillet into the preheated oven.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked (with an internal temperature of at least 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor that elevates every bite! Enjoy your delicious One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

Cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with a dish as delightful as this one! Here are some tips to help you nail this recipe every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh jalapeños and quality chicken make a noticeable difference in flavor. Fresh produce enhances the taste of your dish, giving it that vibrant kick.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeños based on your heat preference. This way, you can cater to everyone’s taste and ensure it’s not too spicy or bland for your guests.
• Let the Cheese Melt: For a creamier texture, cover the skillet with a lid for the first few minutes after adding cheese. This helps trap steam and ensures the cheese melts perfectly over the chicken.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking lets the juices redistribute in the chicken. This will keep your chicken moist and more flavorful when served.
• Experiment with Cheese Mixes: While cheddar is fantastic, mixing in other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda can add exciting new flavors to your dish. Variety keeps things interesting and enhances richness!

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also visually appealing! Presenting it beautifully can elevate your meal experience significantly.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish beautifully.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for an extra zing that balances out the richness of the cheese.

Side Dishes

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This refreshing rice dish pairs well with the spicy chicken, providing a light contrast that complements its flavors.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious touch while its mild flavor allows the cheesy chicken to shine.
• Corn Salad: A zesty corn salad brings sweetness and crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the chicken.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with lime dressing adds health benefits while also being filling—perfect for rounding out your meal.

With these serving ideas, you’re sure to impress family and friends at dinner time! Enjoy each bite of this comforting and zesty dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for a quick and delicious dinner later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the chicken is cooled down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label your container with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on medium power until warm.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about this recipe that might help you!

Can I use other types of cheese in the One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Monterey Jack are great choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist.

Is this One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on the type and amount of jalapeños you use. For less heat, opt for mild jalapeños or reduce the quantity.

Can I substitute chicken breasts with another protein?

Yes! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer is a reliable way to ensure it’s cooked safely.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just easy and delicious but also perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of cheesy goodness and zesty jalapeños is sure to please anyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts after trying this recipe—I’d love to hear how it turned out!

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