If you love spicy food with a burst of flavor, this Spicy Jalapeño Chicken recipe is sure to become a go-to in your dinner rotation. Packed with heat from fresh jalapeños, balanced by savory garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. Whether served over rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own, it’s a fiery, satisfying dish that takes minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love It
✅ Bold and spicy flavor
✅ Easy and fast – ready in under 30 minutes
✅ One-pan recipe with easy cleanup
✅ Customizable heat level
✅ Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep
This dish is ideal for those who love Asian-inspired flavors, chili lovers, or anyone looking to spice up their chicken routine with something a little daring yet easy to make.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for crispier texture)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
For the Jalapeño Sauce:
- 3–4 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for depth of flavor)
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and cornstarch (if using). Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed and sauté garlic, ginger, and sliced jalapeños for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Liquid Ingredients
Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, honey (or sugar), chili paste, and chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Adjust the heat by adding more jalapeños or sriracha, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss it in the spicy sauce until well coated. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together. Add sesame oil at the end for an extra layer of richness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, topped with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy it over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Milder version: Use fewer jalapeños and remove all seeds and membranes.
- Extra crispy: Lightly dredge chicken in cornstarch or flour before frying.
- Add veggies: Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli go great with this dish.
- Meal prep: Stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Final Thoughts
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken is bold, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of spicy heat, garlicky depth, and slightly sweet soy sauce creates a delicious harmony of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for heat lovers or adjusting it for milder palates, this dish offers versatility and serious taste.
Make it once, and you’ll crave it again and again.