Print

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken
Print Recipe

One Pan Cheesy Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a single skillet with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese and fresh diced jalapenos. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish balances spicy heat with creamy gooey cheese for a comforting, family-friendly meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Spices and Aromatics

  • 2 fresh jalapenos, diced (adjust to taste)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Oils and Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts thoroughly with salt and pepper. Dice the fresh jalapenos and mince the garlic cloves, preparing them for cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes per side, until a golden-brown crust forms but the chicken is not fully cooked through.
  3. Add Garlic and Jalapenos: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and diced jalapenos around the chicken in the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring gently to avoid burning the garlic.
  4. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into a creamy, bubbly topping while the chicken finishes cooking.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright herbal note. Serve warm directly from the pan to enjoy the cheesy, spicy flavors.

Notes

  • Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect sear.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapenos to control the heat level according to your preference.
  • Covering the pan while melting cheese helps the cheese melt evenly and keeps the chicken moist.
  • Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking and develop a golden crust.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pan, cheesy, jalapeno, chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meal, spicy, easy recipe, gluten free, family-friendly

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/one-pan-cheesy-jalapeno-chicken/