Jalapeno Chicken
Table of Contents
There’s something magical about the aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through the kitchen. For me, it brings back memories of Sunday afternoons at Grandma’s house, where every dish was a labor of love. Today, I’m inviting you to join me on a culinary adventure that combines the warmth of those nostalgic moments with a dash of spice: Jalapeno Chicken. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in comfort and joy, with a hint of excitement from the jalapenos that will surely lift your spirits.
Imagine the sizzle of chicken as it hits the pan, the way it transforms into golden perfection, and the alluring mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil that creates a rich, savory glaze. Each bite brings a delightful contrast — tender chicken pieces that melt in your mouth, paired with the vibrant kick of jalapenos. It’s an uncomplicated dish that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, yet offers you a world of flavors. You’ll find that this Jalapeno Chicken is not only a family favorite but also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, promising to spark conversations and create lasting memories.
Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table
This Jalapeno Chicken brings an exciting twist to classic chicken dishes, offering a burst of flavor with every bite. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and jalapenos creates a sweet and spicy glaze that is simply irresistible. The sweetness of the brown sugar perfectly balances the heat from the jalapenos, while the soy sauce adds a depth of umami that ties everything together. This creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate and leave you craving more.
Family Favorite: Easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for family gatherings. Its simplicity doesn’t compromise the taste, making it an ideal choice when you want to impress without the stress. Plus, it’s a dish that both kids and adults can enjoy, thanks to its customizable spice level.
Versatile Delight: Whether you’re serving it over rice or pairing it with vegetables, this dish adapts beautifully to various accompaniments. You can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, or even use it as a filling for tacos or wraps for a fun twist. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any meal plan.
Simple Ingredients: With everyday items from your pantry, you can whip up a meal that feels gourmet without the fuss. Most of the ingredients are staples you likely already have, and those you don’t are easy to find at any grocery store. This makes Jalapeno Chicken an accessible recipe for any home cook.
Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
To whip up this delightful dish, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade meals.
Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for coating the chicken evenly with seasoning. A good toss in the bowl ensures every piece of chicken is well-seasoned and ready for the perfect sear.
Medium Mixing Bowl: Ideal for mixing the savory glaze. This bowl will hold the magic mixture that transforms the dish from good to unforgettable.
Nonstick Skillet: Ensures your chicken cooks evenly without sticking. A high-quality skillet is a must to achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust on the chicken.
Tongs: Handy for flipping chicken pieces and sautéing vegetables. Tongs give you control and precision, ensuring each piece of chicken is perfectly cooked.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for getting the perfect balance of flavors. Accurate measurements are key to creating a balanced glaze that enhances but doesn’t overpower the dish.
How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, fat removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup (32 g) cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ⅓ cup (85 g) soy sauce
- ⅓ cup (83 g) water
- ⅓ cup (67 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 2 large jalapeno peppers, sliced into thin rounds
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly on all sides. Set aside. The cornstarch helps to create a light crust on the chicken, sealing in juices and adding a delightful texture.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine water, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. Mix well and set aside. This mixture will become the savory-sweet glaze that coats the chicken perfectly.
To a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add chicken to the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate, and tent to keep warm. Cooking the chicken in batches, if necessary, ensures even browning.
To the same skillet, add onions and jalapeno. Cook until softened (about 4-6 minutes). The onions should become translucent and slightly caramelized, while the jalapenos will soften and release their heat.
Add the chicken and the soy sauce mixture to the pan and stir to combine. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken beautifully.
Serve garnished with sesame seeds over cooked white rice. The sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a touch of elegance to the final presentation.
Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Asian • Preparation Time: 10 minutes • Cooking Time: 20 minutes • Total Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 350 per serving • Servings: 4
Note: For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before slicing. This adjustment allows you to control the heat level, making it more family-friendly.
Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients
These ingredients not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:
Chicken Thighs: Juicy and full of protein, they keep you satisfied and energized. Chicken thighs are perfect for this dish as they remain tender and flavorful, even when cooked at high heat.
Jalapenos: Rich in vitamins A and C, they add a spicy kick and boost your metabolism. The capsaicin in jalapenos is known to have metabolism-boosting properties and can add a delightful zing to your meal.
Soy Sauce: Provides a savory depth of flavor and is a source of antioxidants. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, as it still offers the same rich flavor.
Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and aromatic flavor. Garlic adds a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a well-rounded taste.
Onion: Adds natural sweetness and promotes heart health. Onions also enhance the dish’s overall flavor profile with their subtle sweetness and depth.
Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish
This Jalapeno Chicken is a versatile companion to various beverages and dishes, making it perfect for any occasion:
Steamed Broccoli: Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich chicken. The mild flavor of broccoli complements the boldness of the chicken, creating a balanced meal.
Cold Beer: Complements the spicy kick of jalapenos with a refreshing finish. A light lager or pilsner pairs wonderfully, offering a crisp counterpoint to the dish’s richness.
Green Salad: Light and crisp, it balances the bold flavors of the dish. A salad with a citrus vinaigrette can add a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness.
Chilled White Wine: Enhances the savory elements with a touch of sweetness. A Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc works well, offering a fruity note that complements the spiciness.
Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way
If you find yourself with leftovers — a rare occurrence, I assure you — storing them is a breeze. Simply place the Jalapeno Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to relive the magic, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for a minute or two.
Leftovers transform beautifully into a new dish! Add them to a tortilla with some cheese for a quick quesadilla, or toss with cooked noodles for a spicy stir-fry. You could also add them to a salad for a protein boost or use them as a pizza topping for an unexpected twist. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, they promise to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your home.
The beauty of cooking is not just in the act itself but in the shared joy it brings to our tables and hearts. I hope this Jalapeno Chicken recipe fills your home with the same love and laughter that it has brought to mine. Until next time, happy cooking and cherish every delicious moment.
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Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly on all sides. Set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine water, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. Mix well and set aside.
- To a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add oil. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add chicken to the hot oil. (Depending on the size of the skillet, you may have to work in batches.) Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate, and tent to keep warm.
- To the same skillet, add onions and jalapeno. Cook until softened (about 4-6 minutes).
- Add the chicken and the soy sauce mixture to the pan and stir to combine. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve garnished with sesame seeds over cooked white rice.
