Why Make This Recipe
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that packs a flavorful punch. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, zesty jalapenos, and a sweet-savory sauce makes it a favorite for many. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, frying the chicken gives it a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender meat.
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 chicken thighs in a bowl and toss with salt and black pepper to coat. Set aside.
- Add cornstarch to the bowl and toss until chicken is well coated.
- In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and garlic. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Slice jalapenos and prepare them for cooking, removing seeds for milder heat if desired.
- Heat 4 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 315°F.
- Fry chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
- Increase oil temperature to 350°F and fry chicken for an additional 3-4 minutes for extra crispiness. Drain well.
- In a large skillet, bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add in the fried chicken and sliced jalapenos, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and water content evaporates.
- Transfer to a plate and garnish before serving.
How to Serve Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
You can serve Spicy Jalapeno Chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. It also goes great with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped green onions or more sliced jalapenos for an extra kick.
How to Store Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
Leftover Spicy Jalapeno Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it or warm it in a skillet until heated through.
Tips to Make Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
- For a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before adding them to the recipe.
- Adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to the sauce.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying to avoid soggy chicken.
Variation
You can replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Additionally, try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but ensure the chicken is fully thawed and patted dry before coating and frying.
2. What can I do if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can use flour as a substitute, but it may not give the same level of crispiness.
3. How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness comes from the jalapenos. If you prefer less heat, you can remove the seeds or use fewer jalapenos in the recipe.
Spicy Jalapeno Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Place the chicken thighs in a bowl and toss with salt and black pepper to coat. Set aside.
- Add cornstarch to the bowl and toss until chicken is well coated.
- In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and garlic. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- Slice jalapenos and prepare them for cooking, removing seeds for milder heat if desired.
- Heat 4 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 315°F.
- Fry chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown.
- Increase oil temperature to 350°F and fry chicken for an additional 3-4 minutes for extra crispiness. Drain well.
- In a large skillet, bring the sauce mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add in the fried chicken and sliced jalapenos, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and water content evaporates.
- Transfer to a plate and garnish before serving.