Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a kick to your dinner table. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with the bold flavors of garlic and jalapenos, making it a perfect choice for those who love a bit of heat. Not only is it quick to prepare, but the sweet and spicy sauce gives it a unique taste that everyone will enjoy. Plus, frying the chicken first adds a delicious crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, lightly packed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large jalapenos, cut into 1/4 inch slices
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions:
- Place the prepared chicken into a bowl with salt and ground black pepper. Toss to coat well.
- Add the cornstarch and toss until all the chicken is well coated. Set aside.
- In a smaller bowl, mix soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and garlic. Whisk to combine and set aside.
- Slice the jalapenos into 1/4 inch slices. Remove seeds for a milder taste if desired.
- Heat four inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 315 degrees F.
- Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until cooked, turning halfway through.
- Increase the oil temperature to 350 degrees and return all the chicken to fry for another 3-4 minutes for added crispiness. Drain.
- In a large skillet, add the sauce mixture and bring to a boil.
- Add the fried chicken and jalapenos to the skillet; toss until coated and sauce thickens.
- Transfer to a plate and garnish.
How to Serve Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
Serve Spicy Jalapeno Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, crisp vegetables, or in a taco. You can also serve it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
How to Store Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
To store Spicy Jalapeno Chicken, place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Tips to Make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
- For a milder version, remove the seeds from the jalapenos or use fewer jalapenos.
- Cooking the chicken in batches helps it fry evenly and stay crispy.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the dish for extra texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your own version of Spicy Jalapeno Chicken!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may be less juicy than thighs.
2. How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, remove the seeds from the jalapenos and use fewer peppers.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately and combine before serving.
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the prepared chicken into a bowl with salt and ground black pepper. Toss to coat well.
- Add the cornstarch and toss until all the chicken is well coated. Set aside.
- In a smaller bowl, mix soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and garlic. Whisk to combine and set aside.
- Slice the jalapenos into 1/4 inch slices.
- Heat four inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 315 degrees F.
- Fry the chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes until cooked, turning halfway through.
- Increase the oil temperature to 350 degrees and return all the chicken to fry for another 3-4 minutes for added crispiness. Drain.
- In a large skillet, add the sauce mixture and bring to a boil.
- Add the fried chicken and jalapenos to the skillet; toss until coated and sauce thickens.
- Transfer to a plate and garnish. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside steamed rice or in a taco.