Spicy Jalapeño Chicken (30-Minute Meal)
Juicy chicken thighs marinated with fresh jalapeños, lime, and smoky spices - ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for tacos, bowls, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs 680g boneless chicken thighs - cubed
- 3-4 jalapeños - sliced seeds removed for milder heat
- 4 garlic cloves - minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro - chopped
- 1 lime - juiced 2 tbsp
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey optional
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and all spices.
- Add chicken, tossing to coat. Marinate 10 mins (or up to 2 hrs).
- [Suggested image: chicken in marinade]
- Sear Chicken
- Heat skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken 6-7 mins per side until 165°F internal temp.
- [Suggested image: golden-brown chicken]
- Char Jalapeños
- In same pan, sauté jalapeños 2-3 mins until slightly blistered.
- Combine & Serve
- Toss chicken with jalapeños. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- Storage: Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen.
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Substitutions:
- Chicken breasts (reduce cook time by 2 mins)
- Poblano peppers for milder version
- Serving Tip: Excellent with avocado crema to balance heat.