There’s a special kind of joy that comes from preparing a dish that’s both comforting and bold, with flavors that surprise you with every bite. For me, One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken isn’t just a quick dinner solution—it’s a flavor-packed memory of family evenings gathered around the table, laughter echoing through the kitchen, and that unmistakable aroma of garlic, spice, and sizzling cheese in the air.

This dish brings together two favorites—melted cheese and jalapeños—in a creamy, spicy embrace that hugs the chicken so well, you’ll be reaching for seconds before your fork even hits the plate. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a weeknight when time is short, this meal satisfies without fuss. Inspired by Tex-Mex flavors and rooted in simplicity, this is a one-pan wonder you’ll turn to again and again.

The best part? You don’t need fancy ingredients or multiple dishes. Just one pan, a handful of pantry staples, and about 30 minutes. That’s the magic of One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• One Pan, Minimal Mess – No juggling pots and pans. Just one skillet to clean.
• Quick Weeknight Meal – Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Cheesy with a Kick – Creamy cheese balances the heat of jalapeños beautifully.
• Low Carb & High Protein – Perfect for keto and gluten-free diets.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice to suit your family’s taste.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 4 small chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 jalapeños, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded turkey ham (optional, for extra protein)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

HOW TO MAKE ONE PAN CHEESY JALAPEÑO CHICKEN:

Cooking this spicy, cheesy delight is as fun as it is easy. Here’s how to make One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken that your whole table will love.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry and seasoning both sides with cumin, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The spices form a beautiful crust once cooked and infuse the chicken with a smoky depth.

Step 2: Sear in a Hot Skillet
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Jalapeños and Garlic
In the same pan, toss in your sliced jalapeños and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened. This step enhances their sweetness while mellowing the heat.

Step 4: Make It Creamy
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in Greek yogurt, blending everything into a rich, creamy base. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle in your cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until fully melted and smooth. At this point, your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly.

Step 6: Combine and Finish
Return the chicken breasts to the pan and coat them in the cheesy jalapeño sauce. Add turkey ham if using. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy every bite.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Control the Heat: Remove jalapeño seeds if you prefer a milder dish.
• Make It Creamier: Use full-fat Greek yogurt or add a splash of cream for extra richness.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores and reheats well for lunches.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex Inspired
• Diet: Low Carb, Gluten-Free, High Protein

NOTES:

This dish can be paired beautifully with cauliflower rice, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables. For more indulgence, serve over mashed potatoes or warm tortillas.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:

(Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless thighs will work well—just adjust the cook time slightly.

Is this dish very spicy?
It has a medium heat level. Remove jalapeño seeds or use fewer peppers if you’re sensitive to spice.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, but the creamy sauce might slightly change in texture upon reheating. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Jalapeño Chicken
• Caribbean Jerk Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful Journey to the Islands
• Caribbean Jerk Chicken and Rice
• Cilantro Lime Chicken and Corn

CONCLUSION:

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken is the kind of meal that feels like a little celebration at the end of a long day. It’s bold, comforting, easy, and hits all the right notes—spicy, creamy, savory. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding the family, this dish is a guaranteed win. Bookmark this one—you’ll be making it more than once.

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