Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience that brings a kick of flavor to your dinner table! This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken is the perfect blend of juicy chicken breasts, melted cheese, and zesty jalapenos. The best part? It all comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its rich and creamy goodness topped with a fresh burst of cilantro.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 jalapenos, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is coated with flavor.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes on each side until they are beautifully golden brown.
- Once browned, remove the skillet from heat and layer the sliced jalapenos evenly over the chicken, giving each bite a spicy kick.
- Sprinkle both types of cheese generously over the jalapenos, allowing the melty goodness to envelop the chicken.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and gooey.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in all those delightful juices.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving, and prepare for the compliments!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your spice preference. For a milder dish, make sure to remove all the seeds. You can also add other toppings like diced tomatoes or avocado for an extra layer of flavor!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe features a simple yet effective technique of searing the chicken first to develop a rich, brown crust, followed by baking to ensure the chicken is tender and juicy. Using an oven-safe skillet means fewer dishes, and you get to enjoy all the delicious flavors melding together in one pan.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work wonderfully in this recipe and can add even more moisture and flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Consider serving it over a bed of rice, with a side of roasted vegetables, or inside warm tortillas for a cheesy chicken wrap!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or on the stovetop to preserve the cheesy goodness!
Conclusion
This One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken is not only easy to make, but it’s also a dinner that delivers on both flavor and comfort. With every bite, you’ll savor the juicy chicken complemented by a melting blend of cheeses and a delightful kick from the jalapenos. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend feast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!