Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

If you love bold, zesty flavors and a bit of a spicy kick, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry! Bursting with vibrant peppers, juicy marinated chicken, and plenty of fresh garlic, this 20-minute wonder is the definition of weeknight dinner bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry is all about fresh, simple ingredients that work together for a knockout dinner. Each item pulls its weight, whether that’s adding heat, color, or irresistible savory notes.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender chunks of chicken soak up the marinade and bring hearty protein to the dish.
• Soy sauce: Delivers a saltiness and umami backbone—choose low sodium if you prefer.
• Sriracha: Adds just the right pop of vinegar-laced heat to the marinade.
• White vinegar or apple cider vinegar: Brightens everything and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Vegetable oil + sesame seed oil: The pairing gives you high-heat performance and a classic stir-fry nuttiness.
• 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Yes, that’s a generous amount—expect mouthwatering aroma and flavor!
• 2-4 jalapenos, thinly sliced: The heart and soul of the stir fry’s heat—tailor to your spice tolerance.
• 2 bell peppers, cut in 1-inch pieces: These add color, crunch, and a gentle sweetness that balances the fire.
• Sugar: A little sugar rounds off the sharpness and gives the sauce a silky gloss.
• Ground pepper: Freshly ground is best—layering in that peppery warmth.
• Garam masala or curry powder: Either choice brings a subtle complexity that keeps each bite interesting.
• Chopped fresh cilantro leaves: A sprinkling right at the end for herby brightness and color.

Variations

The magic of this Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry is how easily it flexes! Switch up vegetables, swap the protein, or tweak the seasoning to match your cravings or dietary preferences—there are endless ways to make it your own.

• Swap the Protein: Try this recipe with boneless thighs, shrimp, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef for a new spin.
• Veggie Medley: Add snap peas, broccoli florets, or thinly sliced carrots for more crunch and color.
• Sauce Up: Drizzle in a touch of hoisin, oyster, or teriyaki sauce to dial up the sauciness or sweetness.
• Spice Adjust: Use fewer jalapenos—or toss in a sliced red chili or poblano if you want milder, more nuanced heat.

How to Make Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar in a bowl, then add your bite-sized chicken pieces. Give them a good toss and massage so each piece is coated—this is the secret to deep flavor in such a quick stir fry. Let the chicken soak while you prep your vegetables for the next few minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat both oils together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the slice of jalapenos and chopped garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds—just until fragrant—so the oils get infused with their spicy, garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Next, add your marinated chicken straight into the hot skillet. Spread it out and let it sear for about 5 minutes, stirring only occasionally so the edges turn lightly golden and lock in those flavors. Once the chicken looks almost cooked through, sprinkle in the sugar and toss again.

Step 4: Add Peppers and Finish

Now toss in your bell peppers and give everything a lively stir. Cook for another 5 minutes, making sure the chicken is fully done but the peppers stay crisp and colorful. Just before removing from the heat, sprinkle over the garam masala (or curry powder), finish with fresh cilantro, and toss to combine.

How to Serve Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry

Garnishes

This stir fry comes alive with a finishing sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro and a few extra slices of raw jalapeno for color and a punch of heat. Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful pop of crunch and nutty aroma that makes each bite feel special.

Side Dishes

I love serving Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up all the savory juices. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or even a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, low-carb wrap!

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your stir fry into a build-your-own rice bowl bar—line up extra garnishes like lime wedges, chopped peanuts, or cooling yogurt. Or tuck the spicy chicken and peppers into warm tortillas for a fusion-style taco night that surprises everyone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers from your Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry cool completely before popping them into an airtight container—refrigerated, they’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to three days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze your stir fry in portioned freezer bags or containers. It’s best enjoyed within a month—just know the peppers may soften a bit more after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry in a hot skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth until heated through, or pop it in the microwave for a quick, steamy refresher.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that pops with color, heat, and joyful flavor, give Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry a try! It’s a dish that never fails to perk up my routine, and I hope you fall just as in love with its spicy, garlicky goodness as I have.

Jalapeno Chicken Stir Fry Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 140 reviews

• Author: Villerius
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Total Time: 20 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stir-Fry
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Spice up your dinner with this flavorful and quick Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers recipe. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a kick of jalapeno come together in a delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken:

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

Marinade:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha
• 2 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider

Stir Fry:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil + 1 tsp sesame seed oil
• 10 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2–4 jalapenos, thinly sliced
• 2 whole bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp ground pepper
• 1 tsp garam masala or any curry powder
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro leaves

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Mix soy sauce, sriracha, and vinegar in a bowl. Add chicken, massage well, and marinate.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat oils in a skillet, saute jalapeno and garlic. Add chicken, cook until golden. Add sugar, then bell peppers.
3. Finish the Dish: Cook for 5 minutes, then add garam masala and cilantro. Mix well and serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, cilantro, and jalapeno.

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Notes

• You can adjust the spiciness by reducing or increasing the amount of jalapenos used.
• Ensure not to overcook the peppers to retain their crunchiness.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 730mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 85mg