There’s nothing quite like the enticing fragrance of creamy goodness filling your kitchen, especially when it’s paired with a zesty kick. Picture this: a busy day winding down, and as I stir together warm, shredded chicken and rich cream, I can feel the stress melt away. This Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce is my secret weapon for those nights when I want something quick yet indulgent.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a spontaneous cooking session, and it quickly became a family favorite. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a dish that brings smiles to the dinner table and a satisfying warmth to our bellies. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this crowd-pleasing sauce serves up a flavorful surprise that’s as simple as it is impressive. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Why You'll Love This Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce
- This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The combination of creamy richness and zesty jalapenos creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy it over rice, pasta, or even as a filling for tacos, making it a great option for any meal.
- With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a satisfying dish that not only tastes fantastic but also looks impressive on your dinner table, guaranteed to please a crowd.
Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Cooked chicken – 2 cups, shredded; leftover rotisserie chicken works great for quick prep.
• Cream – 1 cup; use heavy cream for an ultra-rich sauce or half-and-half for a lighter option.
• Jalapenos – 1/2 cup, diced; adjust the amount based on your spice preference for this Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce.
• Chicken broth – 1 cup; homemade adds extra flavor, but store-bought is a handy substitute.
• Cream cheese – 1/2 cup; adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for a tangier twist.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon; fresh garlic can be substituted for a more potent flavor.
• Onion powder – 1 teaspoon; this can be swapped with fresh onions, finely chopped, if preferred.
• Salt – to taste; always taste as you season to get that perfect balance.
• Pepper – to taste; freshly ground black pepper elevates the dish with a nice kick.
How to Make Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce
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Combine the shredded chicken and chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently to mix until the chicken is heated through—about 5 minutes will do the trick.
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Add the cream and cream cheese into the skillet. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
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Mix in the diced jalapenos, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds that zesty flair! Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well blended.
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Season your Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, tasting as you go is key to perfecting those flavors!
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Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Optional: Serve over warm rice or pasta for a comforting meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce?
There’s nothing quite like the blending of flavors and aromas to create a meal that satisfies both the belly and the soul.
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Steamed Rice: This fluffy base soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. It adds a neutral flavor that balances the dish and keeps it light yet filling.
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Garlicky Breadsticks: Crispy on the outside with a soft, warm interior, these sticks offer an irresistible crunch. They’re perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce, ensuring none goes to waste!
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Sautéed Vegetables: Colors and textures burst forth from a mix of vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. They add a nutritious crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the sauce.
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Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy kernels deliver a burst of flavor that complements the spicy jalapenos. The natural sweetness of corn can help temper the heat, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
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Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine tossed with a creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast. Pairing this salad ensures a well-rounded meal, adding both crunch and a zesty note.
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Crispy Tortillas: With a satisfying crunch, these can be served on the side for dipping or crumbled as a topping. They easily transition this dish into a fun, hand-held meal experience.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc accentuates the spice while refreshing your palate, making it a charming partner for this savory sauce.
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Chocolate Mousse: A rich dessert brings a sweet closure to your meal, creating a delightful crescendo following all that savory goodness. Its creamy texture beautifully contrasts with the jalapeno heat, creating a blissful ending.
Make Ahead Options
These Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce components are ideal for meal prep, ensuring that you have a rich and satisfying meal ready to go on busy nights! You can prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the entire sauce, allowing it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, gently reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently (you might need to add a splash of chicken broth to reach the desired consistency). Preparing ahead not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to deepen, making the sauce just as delicious when you serve it!
Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add extra diced jalapenos or drizzle with hot sauce for an intensified heat that keeps your taste buds on their toes.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika to the sauce for a rich, smoky essence that beautifully complements the creaminess.
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Veggie Boost: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for a nutritious pop of color and added texture.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese right before serving for an irresistible cheesy goodness that melts beautifully.
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Herbed Freshness: Adding fresh cilantro or parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds an aromatic, fresh flavor that perfectly balances the richness.
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Creamy Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a protein boost and creamy texture.
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Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving introduces a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavors to new heights.
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Pasta Twist: Serve over al dente pasta instead of rice for a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet simple, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Let your culinary imagination run wild while savoring this delicious dish!
How to Store and Freeze Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce
Fridge: Store your leftover Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw frozen sauce in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed for a creamy consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful base.
- Adjust the amount of jalapenos based on your personal spice tolerance to ensure an enjoyable heat level.
- For a smooth sauce, keep stirring as you add in the cream and cream cheese, aiming for a steady low heat to prevent separation.
- Remember to simmer on low for the recommended 10 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop and meld together harmoniously.
Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right jalapenos for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting jalapenos, look for firm peppers with vibrant green color and no dark spots. The fresher they are, the tastier your Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce will be! If you prefer a milder flavor, choose smaller jalapenos, as they tend to be less spicy than larger ones.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the sauce has cooled completely before sealing it to maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze the Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce?
Absolutely! To freeze, pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container or plastic bag, leaving some space for it to expand as it freezes. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of chicken broth—start with a tablespoon or two—and stir it in over low heat until you achieve your desired consistency. This will help make the sauce silky smooth once again!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies?
For those with dairy allergies, this Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce would need adjustments. You could substitute the cream with a dairy-free cream or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Always check labels to ensure no dairy is present, making it a safe and delicious option for everyone!
How can I vary the spice level in the sauce?
Very easy! To adjust the heat in your Jalapeno Chicken Cream Sauce, start with a smaller amount of diced jalapenos and taste as you go. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos to reduce the spiciness. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped serrano peppers for a different flavor profile!
Equipment
- skillet
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded leftover rotisserie chicken works great
- 1 cup Cream use heavy cream for richness or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1/2 cup Jalapenos, diced adjust based on spice preference
- 1 cup Chicken broth homemade adds extra flavor
- 1/2 cup Cream cheese Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used for tanginess
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder fresh garlic can be substituted
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder can swap with fresh onions
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine the shredded chicken and chicken broth in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently until the chicken is heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Add cream and cream cheese into the skillet. Stir constantly until smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the diced jalapenos, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
