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Spicy Jalapeño Chicken with Creamy Sauce

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Tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection then smothered in a velvety sauce bursting with fresh jalapeños, garlic, and cheddar. Zesty lime and fresh cilantro add a bright, bold finish to every spicy bite.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 4 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cumin.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  4. Add garlic and jalapeños; cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  6. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheddar. Cook 3–4 minutes until smooth and creamy.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 5–7 minutes.
  8. Stir in lime juice, garnish with cilantro, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Adjust the number of jalapeños to control spice level.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  • Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
  • Half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American