If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, bold flavors, and just the right amount of heat, you have to try this Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe. It’s one of those perfect weeknight meals that feels special but comes together in just about 20 minutes. Juicy chicken chunks marry beautifully with the crunch of bell peppers and the spicy kick from fresh jalapenos, all tied together by a tangy, garlicky sauce that’s nothing short of addictive. Once you make this, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe. Each component plays a vital role in balancing heat, sweetness, and savory notes while adding texture and color that make the dish so inviting.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch chunks for quick, even cooking and a tender bite.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Adds salty umami depth to the marinade, enriching the chicken’s flavor.
- 1 tbsp sriracha: The perfect spicy touch that gives the dish its signature heat.
- 2 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Provides a bright tang, balancing the spice and sweetness.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil + 1 tsp sesame seed oil: Vegetable oil for sautéing and a touch of sesame oil for a subtle nutty aroma.
- 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Offers pungent, aromatic warmth that complements the jalapenos.
- 2-4 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced: Adjust to your preferred heat intensity for that bold spicy punch.
- 2 whole bell peppers, cut into 1-inch chunks: Adds sweetness and crunch, plus gorgeous color contrast.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Balances the vinegar and heat for a harmonious flavor profile.
- 1 tsp ground pepper: Brings additional mild heat and aromatic spice.
- 1 tsp garam masala or curry powder: Introduces a warm, exotic twist that elevates the dish.
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro leaves: A fresh, herbaceous finish adding vibrancy and freshness.
How to Make Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar. Toss the chicken chunks in this mixture, pressing gently to ensure every piece soaks up the marinade. This step not only infuses flavor but tenderizes the chicken for juicy bites later. Letting it rest while you preheat your skillet is a great way to build more taste.
Step 2: Sear the Ingredients
Warm the vegetable and sesame oils in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and thinly sliced jalapenos first to release their fragrant oils and kickstart the sizzling aroma. Next, introduce the marinated chicken chunks, spreading them out for even cooking. Let the chicken sear undisturbed until golden on one side before tossing. Sprinkle the sugar over the chicken to add a subtle caramelized sweetness that balances the heat beautifully.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Finish Cooking
Now, toss in the chunks of bell peppers and stir everything together. The peppers should stay slightly crisp, providing a joyful textural contrast. Continue cooking for about 5 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the peppers are tender-crisp. Finish by sprinkling in the garam masala or curry powder, and stir in the fresh cilantro for that final burst of aroma and freshness.
How to Serve Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches take this dish from delicious to unforgettable. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for crunch and extra nuttiness. More fresh cilantro leaves add the perfect pop of green and herbaceous flavor. If you like it extra spicy, a few more thin jalapeno slices on top make a vibrant garnish that hints at the fiery deliciousness beneath.
Side Dishes
Pair this Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati to soak up every bit of the sauce. For something lighter, a simple cucumber salad dressed with lime juice and a pinch of salt will cool your palate and complement the spices. Roasted or grilled vegetables also work beautifully for an extra dose of color and nutrients.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in warm flour or corn tortillas for delicious spicy chicken wraps. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that’s just as satisfying. Inviting friends over? Present it in a colorful serving bowl with plenty of lime wedges on the side—they’ll love customizing the tang to their taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a while, making your next meal just as tasty.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, too. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for even reheating.
Reheating
To bring your refrigerated leftovers back to life, gently warm the chicken and peppers in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if needed. For frozen leftovers, thaw completely first, then reheat similarly.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! The number of jalapenos can be altered based on your heat preference, and you can reduce or omit the sriracha to make the dish milder without losing its signature flavor.
What can I substitute for garam masala?
If you don’t have garam masala, curry powder is a great alternative that brings warmth and complexity. You can also experiment with smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin for different flavor twists.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe?
Yes! Simply swap the chicken for cubed firm tofu or tempeh. Make sure to marinate and cook it the same way to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Can I use frozen bell peppers?
Frozen bell peppers can work in a pinch, but fresh peppers offer the best texture and flavor, especially in this recipe where the crunch is important.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
This Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect quick and flavorful meal option.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe and experience the fiery, tangy, and utterly satisfying flavors firsthand. It’s such a wonderfully balanced dish that’s flexible enough to make your own and guaranteed to brighten up any mealtime. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!
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Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion (Asian-Indian inspired)
Description
A quick and flavorful Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers recipe that combines marinated chicken chunks sautéed with spicy jalapenos, crunchy bell peppers, and aromatic spices. This dish offers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, enhanced by fresh cilantro and a hint of sesame oil, making it an ideal 20-minute meal for four servings.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 2 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Cooking
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame seed oil
- 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2–4 jalapenos, thinly sliced
- 2 whole bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garam masala or curry powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar. Add the chicken chunks to this marinade and massage them well to ensure even coating. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Sear the Ingredients: Heat the vegetable oil and sesame seed oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced jalapenos and finely chopped garlic to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown on all sides. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add Sugar and Bell Peppers: Sprinkle in the sugar and toss to combine. Then, add the cut bell peppers to the skillet and stir them in well with the chicken and spices.
- Finish Cooking: Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bell peppers are tender yet crisp.
- Season and Garnish: Sprinkle ground black pepper and garam masala or curry powder over the dish. Mix in the chopped fresh cilantro leaves. Serve the dish hot, garnished with sesame seeds and additional cilantro if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapenos according to your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- If you prefer a milder taste, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before slicing.
- Serve with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
