why make this recipe
Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender pieces of chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. The use of jalapeno peppers adds a nice kick, while the brown sugar balances the heat with sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you want to impress your family and friends with something delicious.
how to make Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients :
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 large jalapeno peppers, sliced into thin rounds
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Directions :
- 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.
- In 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. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- To the same skillet, add onions and jalapeno. Cook until softened, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Add the chicken and 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.
- For air fryer method, preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, coat the chicken, and cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
how to serve Jalapeno Chicken
Serve Jalapeno Chicken over a bed of cooked white rice. The rice absorbs the delicious sauce, making each bite extra tasty. You can also garnish with more sliced jalapenos or chopped green onions for an added touch.
how to store Jalapeno Chicken
Store any leftover Jalapeno Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
tips to make Jalapeno Chicken
- Cut the chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Adjust the number of jalapenos according to your spice preference; remove seeds for less heat.
- Serve with a side of veggies for a complete meal.
variation
For a twist, you can add bell peppers or carrots to the skillet along with onions and jalapenos. This adds extra color and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.
Can I freeze Jalapeno Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze it! Make sure it is in an airtight container, and it will last for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
It can be! Adjust the amount of jalapenos or use milder peppers if your kids are sensitive to spice.
Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 2 large jalapeno peppers, sliced into thin rounds
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
Cooking
- In 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. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- To the same skillet, add onions and jalapeno. Cook until softened, about 4 to 6 minutes.
- Add the chicken and 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.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, coat the chicken, and cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway.