Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers offers an exciting punch of heat from the jalapenos balanced by the sweetness of bell peppers. The soy sauce and sriracha marinade infuse the chicken with bold, umami-rich flavors while the bell peppers add a crunchy, refreshing contrast. The garam masala (or curry powder) adds a hint of warm, aromatic spice to elevate the dish. Plus, it’s ready in just 20 minutes—making it an excellent option for busy evenings when you still crave a flavorful, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Marinade:

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sriracha

2 tablespoons white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks

For the Stir Fry:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 teaspoon sesame seed oil

10 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2-4 jalapenos, thinly sliced (adjust based on desired spice level)

2 whole bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon garam masala (or any curry powder)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves

Directions

Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar. Add the chicken chunks and mix well, ensuring each piece is coated. Massage the marinade into the chicken and let it sit while you prepare the vegetables.

Sauté the Jalapenos and Garlic
Heat the vegetable oil and sesame seed oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced jalapenos and chopped garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. Add the sugar and stir to combine.

Add the Bell Peppers
Toss in the bell pepper pieces and cook everything together for another 5 minutes over medium heat. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked through, but avoid overcooking the peppers to maintain their crunch.

Season and Serve
Stir in the ground black pepper and garam masala (or curry powder). Mix well to coat the chicken and peppers with the spices. Toss in the fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness.

Garnish and Serve
Serve the dish immediately, garnished with sesame seeds, extra cilantro, and fresh slices of jalapeno, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spice Level: Adjust the number of jalapenos based on your preferred spice level. If you like it milder, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or skip the jalapenos altogether.

Chicken Alternatives: You can substitute chicken with beef, tofu, or shrimp for a different protein.

Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like onions, zucchini, or snap peas to enhance the dish further.

Herbs and Spices: Try adding a squeeze of lime juice for extra freshness or a pinch of red chili flakes for an added kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If reheating in a skillet, add a small splash of water to maintain the dish’s moisture.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours ahead of time to enhance the flavors. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, simply add more jalapenos or increase the amount of sriracha to boost the heat. You can also use hotter chili peppers if you want an extra kick.

Can I use boneless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and will give it a slightly richer flavor. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir fry?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like onions, snap peas, or carrots to the stir fry for additional texture and flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish sweeter?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a little more sugar or a splash of honey to balance the spice.

Can I use a different oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like olive oil or coconut oil, though the flavor may slightly change depending on the oil used.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or another plant-based protein. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if using tofu.

What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or flatbread. You can also serve it with a side of greens or a light salad for a more balanced meal.

How can I reduce the spice level in this dish?

To reduce the heat, use fewer jalapenos and opt for mild sriracha or another non-spicy hot sauce. You can also serve the dish with a cooling side, like yogurt or a cucumber salad, to help balance the heat.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

You can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. Store the chicken and bell peppers in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in a skillet.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers is a quick, flavorful dish that brings heat, sweetness, and spice together in perfect harmony. The chicken is tender, the peppers are crunchy, and the marinade delivers a delightful tangy kick. With its vibrant flavors and simple preparation, it’s a meal you can enjoy any day of the week—whether you’re craving something spicy for lunch or a flavorful dinner.

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