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Jalapeno Chicken Thighs

Jalapeno Chicken Thighs
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Jalapeno Chicken Thighs offer a bold, spicy kick balanced with juicy, tender chicken. This easy-to-make recipe combines fresh jalapenos, aromatic garlic, and smoky spices to create a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

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Chicken & Main Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2–3 fresh jalapenos, sliced thinly (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

Seasonings & Others

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Trim any excess fat and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cumin powder.
  2. Prepare the Jalapeno Mixture: Thinly slice the jalapenos, removing seeds if you prefer milder heat. Finely mince the garlic cloves. In a small bowl, combine the jalapenos, minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh lime juice.
  3. Sear the Chicken Thighs: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the thighs and cook on the other side for 3 minutes.
  4. Add Jalapeno Mixture and Finish Cooking: Pour the jalapeno mixture over the chicken thighs in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Spoon any pan juices and jalapeno slices over the top before serving.

Notes

  • Always dry chicken skin thoroughly before cooking to achieve crispiness.
  • Adjust the spice level by controlling how many jalapeno seeds you include.
  • Using a cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution and a perfect sear.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper browning without steaming the chicken.
  • Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno chicken, spicy chicken thighs, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken, weeknight dinner, Tex-Mex chicken

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/jalapeno-chicken-thighs/