Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with bold, spicy flavors? Look no further! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the richness of chicken with the fiery kick of jalapenos. From tacos to casseroles, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the spicy world of chicken and jalapeno. You’ll find classic Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and quesadillas, as well as innovative twists on traditional comfort foods. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or a hearty casserole to feed your family, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron and let’s get started! Below are 20 recipes that will put the “heat” back into your kitchen.
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this flavorful recipe! Crispy chicken, tangy slaw, and a kick of jalapeño heat make for a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any other taco toppings you like
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cilantro, and jalapeños.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Slice chicken into strips and warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on grill or in oven.
5. Assemble tacos with chicken, slaw (made with lime juice and salt), and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Jalapeno Chicken Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on classic enchiladas, this recipe combines the spiciness of jalapenos with the creaminess of a rich sauce, all wrapped up in tender chicken and tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 2 cups cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, cilantro, jalapeno, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto a tortilla, then roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
5. Pour any remaining chicken mixture over the rolled enchiladas.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, topped with optional sour cream, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Stuffed with Jalapenos and Cheese
Add a spicy kick to your grilled chicken with this flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8-10 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jalapeño slices and shredded cheese.
3. Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting horizontally from one side to the other, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff each breast with the jalapeño-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of creamy chicken, spicy jalapeños, and crunchy crackers for a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 6-8 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g. Ritz or Club)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Drain excess liquid.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheese, soup, milk, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add cooked chicken and chopped jalapeños to the bowl; mix well.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Jalapeno Chicken Chili
A hearty and spicy chili that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, onion, garlic, jalapeno peppers, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Stir in the chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Jalapeno Lime Chicken Skewers
These vibrant skewers combine the bold flavors of jalapeño peppers and lime juice with tender chicken, making for a deliciously spicy summer meal. Perfect for BBQs or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, jalapeños, garlic, and cumin.
3. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Jalapeno Chicken Taquitos
Get ready to spice up your snack game with these addictive baked jalapeno chicken taquitos! Crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick lunch or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cream cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño until well combined.
3. Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
4. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the taquitos.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Chicken and Jalapeno Quesadillas
A twist on the classic quesadilla, these spicy chicken and jalapeno fillings will add a bold kick to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 jalapenos, diced
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Sour cream and salsa for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together chicken, jalapenos, cream cheese, lime juice, and cumin.
2. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-fourth of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes, until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken mixture.
8. Serve hot with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and salsa (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and creamy recipe that combines the heat of jalapeños with the richness of chicken and Alfredo sauce. This dish is perfect for those who like a little kick in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and jalapeños in butter until cooked through.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the chicken mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Stuffed Jalapeno Poppers
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these creamy, cheesy, and spicy chicken-filled jalapeno poppers! This recipe is perfect for a quick gathering or as a unique addition to your next party.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeno peppers
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the jalapeno peppers and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each jalapeno pepper with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Cornbread Casserole
Elevate your comfort food game with this Jalapeno Chicken Cornbread Casserole, a harmonious blend of spicy and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 jalapeno pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, egg, jalapeno, and cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked chicken to the cornbread mixture; stir to combine.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cilantro.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken Wings
Elevate your game day snacks with these spicy and savory chicken wings, infused with the bold flavor of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter until smooth.
3. Add chopped jalapeños, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix well.
4. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the spicy mixture.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings on the sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (optional).
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Add a spicy kick to your meal with these flavorful Jalapeno Chicken Stuffed Peppers! This recipe combines the crunch of bell peppers with the creaminess of chicken and cheese, all wrapped up in a spicy jalapeno package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, cheese, cilantro, and jalapeno to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Jalapeno Stuffed Avocados
These creamy and spicy bites are perfect as a snack or appetizer for your next gathering. Fresh avocados filled with shredded chicken, crispy jalapeños, and tangy cream cheese will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the chicken, jalapeños, and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Spoon the mixture into the avocado halves, mounding it slightly.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Jalapeno Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe combines the classic Chinese dish with a spicy twist by adding jalapenos to give it an extra kick. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 large jalapeno pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the jalapeno and cook until softened, about 1 minute.
3. Add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked chicken, rice, and soy sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken Dip
This creamy dip is a flavorful twist on classic spinach artichoke dip, with the added kick of jalapenos and chicken. Perfect for game day gatherings or movie nights!
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1/4 cup chopped cooked chicken breast
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ranch dressing, and chicken breast. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in cheddar cheese and jalapenos until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a mini cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dip is warm and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and stir in lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo
This recipe brings together the flavors of spicy jalapeños and creamy mayonnaise to create a bold and mouthwatering burger. The combination of crispy chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and crunchy lettuce on a toasted bun is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
– Spicy Mayo:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk eggs and mix with panko breadcrumbs and grated cheese.
3. Add sliced jalapeños to the mixture and stir well.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture and coat evenly.
5. Cook chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble burgers by placing cooked chicken on a toasted bun, adding lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and Spicy Mayo.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and spicy stir-fry recipe that combines the bold flavors of jalapeños, chicken, and vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large jalapeños, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add sliced jalapeños and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and snow peas; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to pan and stir in soy sauce and honey. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Pizza with Hot Honey Drizzle
Get ready for a flavor bomb! This Jalapeno Chicken Pizza with Hot Honey Drizzle is the perfect combination of spicy and sweet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup jalapenos, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Hot Honey Drizzle ingredients: 1/4 cup hot honey, 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a skillet, cook chicken and jalapenos in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. Roll out pizza crust and spread with chicken mixture.
5. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add hot honey and whisk until smooth.
8. Drizzle hot honey glaze over the pizza.
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Elevate your meal with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of jalapeños with the richness of chicken meatballs. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, cheese, cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
6. Add baked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds! This article features 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the bold flavors of spicy chicken and jalapenos. From tacos to casserole, quesadillas to stir-fry, these dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like chicken fajitas or adventurous like jalapeno popper chicken burgers, there’s something for everyone. With a range of heat levels and flavors, you’ll be able to find the perfect recipe to add some excitement to your meal routine.
