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One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken

A simple yet delicious one-pan meal combining juicy chicken with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño sauce, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced (fresh or pickled, depending on spice preference)
  • 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
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Cooking
  1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Stir in softened cream cheese and sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and stir until the sauce becomes creamy. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nesting them in the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and sauce. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 75°C) and cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Take the skillet out of the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or on low heat until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help keep the sauce creamy.