Description
Creamy Jalapeño Chicken is a rich and flavorful skillet dish featuring tender chicken breasts or thighs cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a spicy, creamy sauce made from jalapeños, cream cheese, sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting recipe combines a mild heat with creamy textures, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs), seasoned with salt and pepper
Sauce
- 2-3 fresh jalapeños, diced (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside to rest.
- Sauté Aromatics and Jalapeños: In the same skillet, add a little more oil or butter if needed. Sauté finely chopped onion, garlic, and diced jalapeños until fragrant and soft, unlocking the vibrant flavors.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream, then pour in chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir constantly until smooth. Add shredded cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and well combined.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Notes
- Remove seeds from jalapeños to reduce heat if preferred.
- The recipe can be made with either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference.
- Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for sour cream.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
