If you love a dish that balances just the right amount of spice, fresh crunch, and vibrant colors, the Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. This dish is a beautiful blend of tender chicken strips sautéed with crispy bell peppers and a mild kick from jalapeño slices. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something both healthy and exciting. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it over and over again because it hits every note—zesty, colorful, and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredient list simple is key for the best Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe. Each component plays its part perfectly—bringing texture, vibrant color, or bold flavor to your plate. Let’s break down these essentials:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and perfect texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A healthy fat that adds a rich base for sautéing the chicken and veggies.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a warm, aromatic depth that blends beautifully with the spicy note.
- 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced: Brings the signature mild heat; seeds removed if you prefer less spice.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Offers sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Adds brightness and a juicy crunch.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives a subtle earthy warmth that enhances the Tex-Mex feel.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Intensifies the spice and adds a smoky undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth.
- Juice of 1 lime: Brightens the dish with a refreshing zing.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional): Tops off the dish with a fresh herbal note and a pop of green.
How to Make Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your thinly sliced chicken breasts and let them sear for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing them to brown nicely without drying out. This initial cook gives the chicken a golden crust, locking in the juiciness. Once cooked through, set the chicken aside but keep those delicious fond bits in the pan—they’re flavor gold.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Garlic
Next, toss the minced garlic, jalapeño slices, and both red and yellow bell peppers into the same skillet. The garlic will release its sweet aromas, and the peppers will start softening just right within 4 to 5 minutes, achieving that perfect tender-crisp texture that makes every bite delightful. Keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Spices and Return Chicken
Sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper, stirring everything together so the vegetables are coated with warm, smoky flavors. Now, return your cooked chicken strips to the skillet and combine them thoroughly with the veggies and spices. This step unites all those fantastic flavors, making sure each bite is a harmonious blend.
Step 4: Finish with Lime Juice
Finally, squeeze the juice of one fresh lime over the mixture and give it a quick stir. The lime juice adds a bright acidity that perfectly cuts through the spices and elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness. Cook everything together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
How to Serve Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
For the perfect finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over your Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe. The cilantro adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of lively green color, making the dish irresistibly inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up all the juices. If you’re looking to keep things lighter or low-carb, try serving it with cauliflower rice or tucked inside warm tortillas for festive fajitas. The versatility makes it such a crowd-pleaser!
Creative Ways to Present
Why not get creative by turning this recipe into a vibrant fajita bowl or even a hearty salad topper? Layer the spicy chicken and peppers over leafy greens with a drizzle of avocado or sour cream to balance the heat. Presentation matters, and this dish always looks stunning with its rich colors and textures, inviting everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this dish later on, it freezes well. Place the cooled chicken and peppers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can also microwave it covered in short bursts, stirring in between, to keep everything moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Removing the jalapeño seeds drastically reduces the heat, and you can even use half a jalapeño if you prefer a milder flavor. The dish is still wonderfully tasty without overwhelming spice.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you want a juicier, more flavorful option. Just be sure to slice them thinly and adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through perfectly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten without compromising on flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the chicken and vegetable ingredients ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook as directed when ready. This saves time and keeps everything tasting fresh.
What’s the best way to add more vegetables?
You can easily increase the veggie quotient by adding sliced onions, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just add these to the skillet along with the bell peppers and adjust cooking times as needed to keep that perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe is a shining example of how a few fresh, simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and color. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for anyone who loves a little spice without the fuss. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you, and it might just become a staple in your meal rotation.
Print
Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Jalapeño Chicken with Bell Peppers is a vibrant and spicy Tex-Mex main course featuring tender strips of chicken sautéed with garlic, jalapeño, and colorful bell peppers. This quick stovetop recipe combines hearty protein with bold flavors from cumin, chili powder, and lime juice, making it a perfect healthy dinner option that’s both gluten-free and dairy-free.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- juice of 1 lime
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced, seeds removed for less heat
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, thinly sliced jalapeño, and both red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté these ingredients for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently until the peppers become tender-crisp but still retain some crunch.
- Season the Mix: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper into the pepper and jalapeño mixture. This will infuse the vegetables with warm, smoky spices.
- Combine Chicken and Vegetables: Return the cooked chicken strips back to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly so the chicken is well-coated with spices and mixed evenly with the vegetables.
- Finish with Lime and Cilantro: Pour in the fresh lime juice and cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld and the dish to heat through completely. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if using. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Serve over steamed rice, in warm tortillas for delicious fajitas, or with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your preferred spice level—remove seeds for milder heat or keep them for more intensity.
- For a dairy-free meal, avoid toppings like cheese or sour cream.
- Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal finish but can be omitted if you don’t prefer its flavor.
