Description
Creamy Jalapeno Popper Chicken is a delightful and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to golden perfection and smothered in a rich, cheesy jalapeno-infused sauce. Inspired by the classic jalapeno popper appetizer, this recipe combines spicy jalapenos, creamy cream cheese, and sharp cheddar to create a satisfying and indulgent meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh cracked pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 fresh jalapenos, ribs and seeds removed, diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season all sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté jalapenos and garlic: In the same pan, melt the butter and add the diced jalapenos. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic along with a couple of large pinches of salt and pepper, and cook, stirring frequently, for another 30 seconds.
- Create the roux: Sprinkle the flour into the pan and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to eliminate raw flour taste and thicken the sauce.
- Add liquids and cheese: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the flour is fully dissolved and the mixture begins to thicken. Add the cream cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheeses melt completely and form a creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Nestle the cooked chicken breasts back into the sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the chicken is warmed through and well coated.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the dish for a fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy.
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Notes
- Removing the ribs and seeds from the jalapenos reduces the heat, but you can leave some seeds in if you prefer spicier flavor.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- For a thicker sauce, add an extra tablespoon of flour during the roux step.
- Serve with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
