Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, quick to whip up, and sure to please everyone at the table, this Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Tender chicken thighs coated in a light cornstarch crust create a perfect base for a savory-sweet soy sauce glaze, enlivened by the spicy kick of fresh jalapenos and the warmth of garlic and sesame oil. This stir-fry is a vibrant, satisfying meal that effortlessly combines heat, sweetness, and umami, making it a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe is so easy thanks to a handful of simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in layering the dish with texture and flavor—from the juicy chicken thighs to the zingy jalapenos and the rich, caramelized soy sauce mixture.
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces: Offers juicy, tender meat that holds up well to stir-frying.
- ¼ cup cornstarch: Creates a light crust on the chicken for a delicate crispiness when cooked.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors of the chicken and veggies.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds subtle heat and spice complexity.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: The cooking fat that helps brown the chicken beautifully and softens the aromatics.
- ⅓ cup soy sauce: Brings salty, umami depth to balance the heat of the jalapenos.
- ⅓ cup water: Helps loosen the sauce for coating all the ingredients evenly.
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed: Infuses the sauce with just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a warm, nutty aroma and enriches the stir-fry’s finish.
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant pungency that makes everything taste more homemade.
- ½ yellow onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the spice.
- 2 large jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced: The star ingredient for that lively spicy kick without overwhelming heat.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish: Provide a toasty crunch and a pretty garnish that makes the dish pop.
- Cooked white rice, for serving: The perfect neutral base to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
How to Make Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Coat the Chicken
Start by tossing your chicken pieces with cornstarch, kosher salt, and black pepper. This step is essential because the cornstarch creates a delicate, crispy coating when cooked. It also helps lock in moisture, so your chicken stays juicy and tender throughout the stir-fry process.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
While the chicken rests, whisk together soy sauce, water, light brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. This shiny, sticky sauce will be the magic binder that brings sweet, salty, and aromatic flavors together in the final dish.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken carefully, letting it cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes per side until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through (reaching an internal temp of 165°F). Then move the chicken to a plate and tent it with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Jalapenos
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and sliced jalapenos. Cook them down for about 4 to 6 minutes until they soften and their natural sweetness and heat meld together. This step adds incredible layers of flavor and texture to the stir-fry.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, then pour over the soy sauce mixture. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and coat every piece of chicken and vegetable in a delicious glaze.
How to Serve Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top just before serving to add an irresistible crunch and an extra layer of nutty flavor that begs for another bite. Fresh cilantro or sliced green onions also make lovely garnishes if you want to brighten it up further.
Side Dishes
Serve this flavorful Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe over steaming cooked white rice—the classic choice to soak up all those juices. Alternatively, pair it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist or alongside steamed veggies for even more color and nutrition on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving the stir-fry in small lettuce wraps or over a bed of noodles. You can also scoop portions into warm tortilla wraps for an unexpected fusion meal. No matter how you plate it, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of the Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day, so it’s perfect for next-day lunches or dinners. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, let the stir-fry cool completely then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It keeps well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you want to retain the chicken’s crispiness and the vibrant texture of the jalapenos. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help loosen the sauce if it’s thickened in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, but keep in mind they can dry out more quickly than thighs. Be careful not to overcook, and consider adding a bit more cornstarch to help keep them juicy.
How spicy is the Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe?
The heat level is lively but not overpowering. Using fresh jalapenos gives a fresh, bright spiciness that complements the sweet and savory sauce without overwhelming the palate. You can adjust the number of peppers to suit your heat preference.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for firm tofu or your favorite meat substitute. Press the tofu well, cut into cubes, and coat with cornstarch before frying. The sauce and jalapenos remain the same, delivering plenty of flavor.
Is there a gluten-free way to make this stir-fry?
Definitely! Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, and double-check that your cornstarch and other ingredients don’t contain gluten. This way, you maintain the delicious taste while keeping it safe for gluten sensitivities.
What sides go well with this dish besides rice?
Besides rice, steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a fresh cucumber salad are great side options. Light and crisp vegetables provide balance to the warm, spicy, and sweet elements of the stir-fry.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe has all the qualities of a go-to meal: it’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying with a bit of a spicy kick that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to become a cherished staple. Dive in and enjoy the magic it brings to your dinner table!
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Jalapeno Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Jalapeno Chicken is a flavorful and family-friendly dish featuring tender chicken thighs cooked with spicy jalapenos, savory soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. This quick and easy skillet recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights, served deliciously over steamed white rice and garnished with sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, fat removed, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ¼ cup (32 g) cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce and Aromatics
- ⅓ cup (85 g) soy sauce
- ⅓ cup (83 g) water
- ⅓ cup (67 g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 2 large jalapeno peppers, sliced into thin rounds
For Cooking and Serving
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cornstarch, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly, then set aside to rest while preparing the sauce.
- Mix the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, soy sauce, light brown sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the chicken is browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate; cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion and sliced jalapeno peppers. Sauté over medium heat for about 4-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions and jalapenos have softened and become fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the prepared soy sauce mixture. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the jalapeno chicken to serving plates. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and serve hot over cooked white rice for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For milder heat, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before slicing.
- Use dark soy sauce for a deeper flavor and color if preferred.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted but may require shorter cooking time to avoid drying out.
- Make sure to cook chicken fully to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Serve with steamed rice or your favorite grain to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
