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If you love bold flavors with just the right amount of heat, this Jalapeño Chicken is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken, fresh jalapeños, and a sticky sweet-savory sauce come together in one pan for a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite takeout spot—but fresher, faster, and more flavorful.
This recipe strikes the perfect balance between spicy and sweet. The jalapeños provide a clean, bright heat that doesn’t overpower, while honey and soy sauce create a glossy sauce that clings beautifully to every bite of chicken. It’s crave-worthy comfort food with an exciting kick.
Why Jalapeño Chicken Works So Well
Jalapeños are often overlooked in cooked dishes, but when sautéed, they mellow slightly while still retaining their signature heat. Paired with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness, they add depth rather than overwhelming spice.
Chicken thighs are ideal here because they stay juicy and tender even with high-heat cooking. Combined with a quick cornstarch-thickened sauce, the result is a restaurant-style dish made entirely at home.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
This jalapeño chicken recipe is:
- Ready in 30 minutes
- Made in one pan
- Easily customizable for heat level
- Great for meal prep
- Perfect over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps
It’s bold enough to feel exciting but simple enough for everyday cooking.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Fresh jalapeños, sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Soy sauce
- Honey
- Rice vinegar
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add jalapeños, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return chicken to the skillet.
- Pour sauce over chicken and jalapeños.
- Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened and glossy.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Jalapeño Chicken
Control the heat
Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat, or add extra slices for more spice.
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Cook chicken in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
Use thighs for juiciness
Chicken breasts work, but thighs stay more tender.
Delicious Variations
Honey Jalapeño Chicken
Add an extra tablespoon of honey for a sweeter glaze.
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken
Add chili garlic sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
Crispy Jalapeño Chicken
Lightly coat chicken in cornstarch before frying for extra texture.
Low-Carb Option
Serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed cabbage.
What to Serve With Jalapeño Chicken
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Fried rice or noodles
- Simple cucumber salad
- Steamed broccoli or snap peas
The freshness of veggies balances the bold sauce beautifully.
Storage & Meal Prep
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
This recipe is excellent for meal prep lunches—it reheats well and stays flavorful.
Jalapeño Chicken
Sweet and spicy jalapeño chicken made in one pan with a glossy, bold sauce.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk sauce ingredients together and set aside.
- Cook chicken in a hot skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Sauté jalapeños, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Return chicken and add sauce.
- Simmer until thick and glossy, then garnish and serve.
Notes
Adjust jalapeños to control spice level.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This Jalapeño Chicken delivers everything you want in a homemade takeout-style meal: bold flavor, quick prep, minimal cleanup, and serious comfort. It’s the kind of dish that earns repeat requests and becomes a go-to when you want something exciting without extra effort.
