Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers

Jalapeno Chicken with Bell Peppers is my take on a quick and lively stir fry that puts dinner on the table in under half an hour. Layers of tender chicken and colorful vegetables meet bold seasonings for a meal that satisfies both craving and convenience

I whipped up a version of this recipe after a long workday needing something punchy with minimal effort. Now we crave it whenever jalapenos hit the market

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: Cubes make the dish hearty with lean protein look for firm pink fillets
• Soy sauce: Infuses the meat with savory depth choose a naturally brewed option
• Sriracha: Brings tangy heat use your favorite brand for best results
• Vinegar: Brightens the dish and keeps it lively apple cider or quality white vinegar both work
• Vegetable and sesame oil: Combo help with even sautéing and add nutty notes to the finish toasted sesame oil is my go to here
• Garlic: Fresh cloves offer sharpness and aroma pick plump cloves for best flavor
• Jalapeno: Slices deliver the main heat and sparkle aim for glossy green peppers
• Bell peppers: Provide sweetness and crunch pick ones that feel heavy and firm
• Sugar: Rounds out the heat and umami a little goes a long way use granulated white
• Black pepper: Gives warmth so grind fresh for power
• Garam masala or curry powder: Adds aromatic lift make sure yours is fragrant and not stale
• Fresh cilantro: Offers herbal brightness use leaves from a fresh bunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Combine soy sauce sriracha and vinegar in a large bowl Add chicken chunks and massage the marinade in Make sure all pieces are coated Let sit while you prep the vegetables The marinade boosts juiciness and allows for quick cooking

Prep the Vegetables:

While the chicken marinates trim and slice jalapenos and bell peppers Keep jalapeno seeds if you want more heat Remove pepper seeds for sweetness and crunch Cut everything to similar sizes for even results

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat both vegetable oil and sesame oil in a big skillet over medium high Add chopped garlic and jalapeno Sauté for about thirty seconds to mellow out the raw kick The aroma will be powerful

Cook the Chicken:

Add the marinated chicken to the skillet Arrange it in a single layer to get maximum color Let it cook for about five minutes turning so all sides get golden brown Add a sprinkle of sugar here to begin caramelizing flavors

Finish with Veggies and Spices:

Add the bell peppers to the pan along with ground pepper Stir and cook for five minutes more until the chicken is just cooked through Keep the peppers crisp for best texture Finally sprinkle over garam masala and toss in fresh cilantro Mix well right before serving

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I love the way the aroma of toasted sesame oil mingles with garam masala when it hits the hot pan It always reminds me of a night we cooked together as a family and everyone reached for seconds before the dish left the skillet

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in a sealed container in your refrigerator up to three days The flavors get even better overnight Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave just until warmed to maintain chicken tenderness Peppers should stay a little crisp

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken with firm tofu or shrimp if you prefer a meatless or pescatarian version Red chili flakes can stand in for fresh jalapeno in a pinch If you are out of bell peppers try zucchini or snap peas for similar crunch and color

Serving Suggestions

Pile the chicken and peppers over steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a meal With flatbread or in lettuce cups this also shines as party finger food I love it brightened with a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of extra sriracha

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Cultural Context

This recipe draws inspiration from Asian and Indian fusion kitchens where fresh chilies and aromatic spices work together Stir fry techniques blend both culinary traditions the short cook time and layering of flavors appeal to global palates

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How spicy is this dish?

The heat depends on the number of jalapeno slices used. Start with two for mild warmth and increase for more kick. Deseed jalapenos for a milder profile.

→ Can I use other proteins?

Yes, substitute chicken with tofu, paneer, or thinly sliced beef for delicious results, adjusting cooking time as needed.

→ Are specific peppers best for this dish?

Use any bell pepper color—red, yellow, or green—for sweetness and crunch. They enhance both texture and color in the finished dish.

→ What can I serve this with?

This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the vegetables?

Add bell peppers towards the end and cook just until they become slightly tender yet remain crisp for best texture.