One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken: Bold, Creamy, and Easy

If you love bold, creamy flavors with a touch of heat, One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious, cheesy jalapeño sauce that’s rich, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting. The smoky paprika and cumin infuse the chicken with depth, while fresh or pickled jalapeños give the perfect kick. With everything cooked in one pan, cleanup is minimal and the flavors meld beautifully.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you crave a satisfying, cheesy, and slightly spicy dinner. It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh green salad, making it versatile and family-friendly. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar creates a sauce that’s creamy, cheesy, and slightly tangy, complementing the spicy jalapeños perfectly.

In this guide, you’ll find a full list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and answers to frequently asked questions to ensure your One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken comes out perfectly every time.

Ingredients

• 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
• ½ cup jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled, depending on spice preference)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Set aside while heating the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Jalapeño Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Sauté the minced garlic for 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced jalapeños and cook for 1–2 minutes. Lower the heat slightly and stir in the cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix until smooth and creamy. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is velvety and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over each piece. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the chicken and serve with lime wedges for a zesty finish. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, roasted vegetables, or warm tortillas to soak up the cheesy jalapeño sauce.

Tips for Success

Even Cooking: Flatten thicker chicken breasts slightly or butterfly them to ensure even cooking.

Control the Heat: Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level. Removing seeds reduces the heat significantly.

Cheese Blend: A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess.

Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and add cooked chicken before serving.

Serving Suggestions: Serve over rice, pasta, or with soft tortillas for a complete, flavorful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly if using larger pieces.

Can I make this dish in the oven?
Yes, after searing the chicken, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, then add the sauce and finish cooking.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free shredded cheese to maintain the creamy texture.

How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, corn, or spinach can be added to the sauce for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.

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Conclusion

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken is a quick, flavorful, and indulgent dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a comforting, cheesy meal with a spicy kick. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and zesty jalapeños creates a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Minimal cleanup, bold flavors, and a touch of freshness from cilantro and lime make this recipe a go-to favorite for families and entertaining alike.

With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, packed with creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy goodness in every bite.