One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal that brings the heat, look no further! This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With just the right amount of spice from the jalapeños and the creaminess of melted cheese, it’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table.

What I love about this dish is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe fits right in. Plus, since everything cooks in one pan, cleanup is a breeze! You’re going to love how quickly this comes together and how satisfying it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe comes together in under 35 minutes.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of spices, jalapeños, and creamy cheese creates an explosion of flavors.
• One Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes means more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up!
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will appreciate the cheesy goodness and tender chicken.
• Customizable: You can easily switch ingredients based on what you have on hand or your spice preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe is super simple with these wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they are easy to find at your local grocery store!

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Variations

This recipe is great as it is, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
• Swap the Protein: Use turkey or even tofu for a different protein option that still soaks up all that delicious sauce.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
• Go Creamy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version while keeping it delicious.

How to Make One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your dish cooks evenly and gives the cheese that perfect melty quality.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. This not only adds flavor but also helps create a nice crust when searing.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned. This step locks in juices for tender chicken while adding depth of flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Jalapeño Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat after removing the chicken from the skillet. Add butter to melt before tossing in minced garlic and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then stir in softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth—this forms our creamy base!

Step 5: Add Chicken Broth

Pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously until you achieve a creamy consistency. Nestle your seared chicken back into this flavorful sauce so every piece can soak up all that goodness!

Step 6: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of everything in the skillet. This is where we get that lovely cheesy topping!

Step 7: Bake

Transfer your skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and serve with lime wedges on the side. The lime juice adds a refreshing zing that complements all those rich flavors beautifully!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

Making this dish is a breeze, and with these helpful tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh jalapeños and herbs really enhance the flavor of the dish. Fresh ingredients not only provide better taste but also add vibrant color to your meal.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re not a huge fan of spice, feel free to reduce the amount of jalapeños or use milder peppers. This allows you to customize the heat level to suit your preference while still enjoying that cheesy goodness.

• Let the Chicken Rest: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.

• Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, you can mix in other cheeses like pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for creaminess. Mixing different cheeses can create unique flavor profiles tailored to your taste buds.

• Make Ahead and Freeze: If you’re short on time during busy weeks, prepare the dish ahead of time and freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready for a quick and satisfying dinner!

How to Serve One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe

Serving up this zesty chicken dish can be as fun as cooking it! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that complements the richness of the cheese.
• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime over your chicken just before eating enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.
• Chopped Green Onions: A scattering of chopped green onions brings an added crunch and mild onion flavor that balances the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up all that delicious cheesy jalapeño sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds color and nutrition while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and avocado offers a nutritious side that’s both filling and refreshing.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this dish, providing a comforting contrast to the spicy chicken.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy your One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store the leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely first.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use different types of cheese in the One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a dairy-free alternative can work well with this dish.

How spicy is the One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe?

The level of spiciness depends on the type of jalapeños you use. Fresh jalapeños will give it a nice kick, while pickled jalapeños are milder. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with other proteins like turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy in the One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe?

Searing the chicken first helps lock in moisture. Also, don’t overcook it; using a meat thermometer ensures it reaches 165°F (75°C) perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Recipe as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding your family or having friends over, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!