Mediterranean Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet
This skillet dinner is all about bold flavor wrapped in creamy comfort. Juicy chicken breasts are pan-seared until golden, then simmered in a velvety sauce made with cream cheese, cheddar, and fresh jalapeños. The Mediterranean touch comes from olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, balancing heat with richness. It’s a one-pan recipe that’s both indulgent and easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.
Total Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or cutlets)
1 tsp chili powder
½ tsp cumin
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2–3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to spice preference)
½ cup chicken broth (low sodium)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-Monterey Jack blend)
Optional Additions:
3 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Season the Chicken:
Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate (they don’t need to be fully cooked yet).
Build the Sauce Base:
In the same skillet, add onions and cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and jalapeños, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add Liquids:
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan. Lower heat to medium.
Make it Creamy:
Stir in cream cheese until melted, then pour in heavy cream. Let it gently simmer until smooth.
Add Cheese:
Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and creamy.
Return Chicken:
Add the chicken back to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Cover and cook for another 6–8 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
Finish & Serve:
Garnish with bacon (if using), cilantro, or green onions. Serve hot with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips
Adjusting Heat: Remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños for a milder sauce, or leave some in if you want extra kick.
Creamy Texture: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding—it will melt into the sauce much more smoothly.
Cheese Blend: For a gooier sauce, combine cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
One-Pan Success: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken. If needed, cook in two batches to keep the chicken golden instead of steaming.
Thicker Sauce: Let the sauce simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes if you prefer it thicker.
Variations
Mediterranean Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, or a sprinkle of feta at the end for more Mediterranean flavor.
Low-Carb/Keto Option: Serve with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or roasted veggies instead of rice or pasta.
Protein Swap: Try this recipe with boneless chicken thighs for juicier meat or even shrimp for a quicker cook.
Spice Play: Swap chili powder and cumin with smoked paprika and oregano for a slightly different profile.
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce while it simmers for extra nutrition.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce up to a day ahead. Store separately in airtight containers, then reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: With seeds removed, it’s mild to medium heat. For more spice, leave in some seeds or add an extra jalapeño.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: The creamy sauce doesn’t freeze well (it can separate). Refrigeration for up to 3 days is best.
Q: What side dishes pair well with it?
A: Brown rice, couscous, or quinoa are great. Crusty bread or roasted vegetables also work nicely to soak up the sauce.
Q: Can I lighten the recipe?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce the cheese a bit, and opt for chicken cutlets instead of whole breasts for smaller portions.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~430
Protein: ~36g
Fat: ~27g
Carbohydrates: ~8g
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~620mg
(Values vary depending on cheese choice, portion size, and optional add-ins like bacon.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Creamy Jalapeño Chicken Skillet strikes a perfect balance between creamy indulgence and bold flavor. The sauce is rich but brightened by garlic, jalapeño, and a touch of spice, making it versatile enough for weeknights yet satisfying for entertaining. With one skillet and about 30 minutes, you get a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to pair with almost any side.