Description
One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken is a quick, creamy, and cheesy dinner with a touch of spice. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy cheese sauce with jalapeños and fresh cilantro, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup.
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
- 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)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Sear chicken in the skillet for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 1 minute, then add cream cheese, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Add shredded cheese and jalapeños, stirring until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top, and cook 2–3 minutes to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Adjust jalapeño quantity to control the spice level.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for extra juiciness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired