This spicy jalapeño chicken recipe is ready in just 20 minutes, making it the ultimate quick high-protein dinner for busy weeknights. Packed with lean chicken breast and fresh jalapeños, it…

Ingredients

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Instructions

Step 1

Slice chicken breast horizontally into thin cutlets. Season both sides with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 1 image
Step 2

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2 image
Step 3

In the same skillet, add sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and jalapeños begin to soften.

Step 4

Reduce heat to low. Stir in Greek yogurt and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5

Return chicken to the skillet, spoon sauce over the top. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.

Step 6

Remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately.

For best results

  • For extra heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • To save time, pound the chicken to even thickness for quicker cooking.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed veggies to keep it low-carb and macro-friendly.

Variations

  • Creamy version: Add 2 tbsp cream cheese along with the yogurt for a richer sauce.
  • Air fryer: Cook seasoned chicken at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, then top with cheese and air fry for 2 more minutes.
  • Meal prep: Prepare the chicken and sauce separately, store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

  • Calories385 kcal
  • Total Fat18g
  • Saturated Fat8g
  • Cholesterol120mg
  • Sodium520mg
  • Total Carbohydrates5g
  • Dietary Fiber1g
  • Sugars2g
  • Protein48g

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work great. They have a bit more fat, which adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy. Adjust cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your chicken broth and spices are certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free yogurt and omit the cheese, or use a dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious.