10 Delicious Chicken and Jalapeno Recipes for a Spicy Kick
If you’re looking to add some heat to your dinner table, we’ve got a fantastic lineup of chicken recipes that pack a spicy punch. These ten zesty dishes combine tender chicken with the bold kick of jalapenos, ensuring your taste buds are in for a treat. From mouthwatering tacos to fiery stir-fries, get ready to spice things up in the kitchen!
Grilled Jalapeno Chicken Skewers
Grilled Jalapeno Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy a burst of flavor with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, zesty jalapenos, and colorful bell peppers creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
The grilling process adds a lovely smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the heat of the jalapenos. These skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 fresh jalapenos, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, jalapenos, and bell peppers onto skewers, alternating between ingredients.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or side.
Jalapeno Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Jalapeno stuffed chicken breasts are a delightful treat for anyone who loves a spicy kick in their meals. The tender chicken is filled with a creamy mixture of cheese and jalapenos, delivering a burst of flavor with every bite. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
The combination of juicy chicken and zesty jalapenos creates a satisfying contrast that is sure to please your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of heat or just looking to add some flair to your dinner table, these stuffed chicken breasts will be a hit!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2-3 jalapenos, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast by cutting horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the jalapeno cheese mixture, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Tacos
These Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Tacos are a delightful blend of flavors and heat, perfect for taco night or any casual meal. The tender chicken, marinated in spicy seasonings, pairs perfectly with fresh veggies, creating a satisfying and zesty dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Simple to make, these tacos are ready in no time, making them a great choice for busy weeknights. With the added crunch of fresh cilantro and the kick of jalapenos, each bite is bursting with flavor. Get ready to enjoy a fun twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jalapeno, sliced
- 8 small corn or flour tortillas
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Stir in the sliced jalapeno for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a separate pan, warm the tortillas until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Tacos: Fill each tortilla with the spicy chicken mixture. Top with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Zesty Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry
This Zesty Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry is a perfect blend of tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and spicy jalapenos, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and full of flavor. The heat from the jalapenos pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers, making for a delightful balance on your palate. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something spicy.
With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. This stir-fry is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition, thanks to the array of fresh vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to add a kick to your dinner routine!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2-3 jalapenos, sliced (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced jalapenos to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until just tender.
- Mix together the soy sauce and honey, then pour over the stir-fry, tossing to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot over rice or noodles.
Crispy Jalapeno Chicken Wings
Crispy jalapeno chicken wings are the perfect blend of spice and crunch, making them a favorite for game days or any casual gathering. The wings are coated in a flavorful mix of spices and jalapeno seasoning that packs a punch, while the crispy skin adds an irresistible texture. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make, ensuring you can whip them up without much fuss.
These wings offer a zesty kick that’s sure to please anyone who loves a bit of heat. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a winning appetizer that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself, these crispy jalapeno chicken wings are a must-try!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 jalapenos, finely chopped
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken wings and buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
- Prepare the Coating: In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir in finely chopped jalapenos.
- Coat the Wings: Remove wings from buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each wing in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated wings.
- Fry the Wings: Fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Enjoy the crispy jalapeno wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Pasta
Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that brings both heat and comfort to the table. The creamy sauce, spiced up with jalapenos, perfectly coats tender pieces of chicken and pasta, making it a satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare. This recipe is great for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of the spicy jalapenos, creamy sauce, and tender chicken creates a rich and zesty experience that will please anyone who loves a bit of heat in their meals. Plus, it’s simple enough for even beginner cooks to whip up in no time!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or your choice of pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 jalapenos, sliced (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the sliced jalapenos and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the chicken back to the skillet.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, mixing well to coat. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, spicy dish!
Baked Jalapeno Popper Chicken
Baked Jalapeno Popper Chicken combines tender chicken with spicy jalapenos and creamy cheese for a dish that packs a flavorful punch. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The crispy topping adds an extra crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
This dish balances spice and comfort, appealing to both spice lovers and those who enjoy milder flavors. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, diced jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create a pocket. Stuff each chicken breast with the cheese mixture.
- Place the stuffed chicken in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Jalapeno Chicken Quesadillas
Jalapeno chicken quesadillas are a fun and easy way to spice up your meal. With tender chicken, gooey cheese, and the kick from jalapenos, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re simple to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend snack.
These quesadillas are not just tasty; they are also customizable. You can add in your favorite veggies or tweak the spice level to your liking. Serve them with salsa or guacamole for a delightful treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup diced jalapenos (fresh or pickled)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Salsa or guacamole for serving
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half the cheese evenly on top.
- Layer the shredded chicken, diced jalapenos, and cilantro on top of the cheese.
- Top with the remaining cheese and place another tortilla on top.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown, then carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute before cutting into wedges.
- Serve warm with salsa or guacamole on the side.
Tangy Jalapeno Chicken Salad
This Tangy Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of flavors that’s simple to whip up. The tender chicken paired with spicy jalapenos brings a zesty kick that’s sure to please your taste buds. It’s fresh, vibrant, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy greens, and a tangy dressing elevates the dish, making it not just a salad, but a flavorful experience. You can have it ready in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy days!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup jalapenos, diced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup corn (optional)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, jalapenos, corn, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve the chicken mixture on a bed of mixed greens, garnishing with extra cilantro if desired.
- Enjoy this refreshing salad immediately!
Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Tacos
These Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Tacos are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken becomes incredibly tender and infused with a spicy kick from jalapenos, making each taco a burst of deliciousness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle.
Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the magic to happen while you go about your day. Just shred the chicken when it’s done, and you have a tasty filling ready to go. Top it off with fresh cilantro and diced onions for that perfect finishing touch!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 jalapenos, chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced onions, for serving
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Add chicken broth, jalapenos, onion, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and then return it to the pot to mix with the juices.
- Warm the Tortillas: In a skillet, warm the tortillas over medium heat until they’re pliable.
- Assemble: Fill each tortilla with the shredded chicken, then top with fresh cilantro and diced onions. Serve immediately.