The vibrant colors of fresh raspberries and the shimmering slices of jalapeño in my skillet never fail to capture my attention. There’s a certain thrill that comes from combining sweet and spicy elements, and that’s precisely what makes this Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken so special. I was initially hunting for something vibrant to liven up my weeknight dinner routine, and stumbled upon this delightful recipe that has quickly become a family favorite.
Each time I serve this dish, the blend of tangy raspberry preserves with a kick of jalapeño captivates everyone at the table, transforming an ordinary meal into a delightful culinary adventure. Plus, the best part? This show-stopper on the dinner table takes just 25 minutes to prepare, leaving plenty of time for heartfelt conversations or to savor a glass of wine. Whether you’re hosting a weekday family feast or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe ticks all the boxes for ease, flavor, and sheer satisfaction. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s as exciting to make as it is to eat!
Why is Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken a Must-Try?
Each bite of this dish is a delightful surprise, balancing sweet raspberry with a spicy jalapeño kick.
- Easy to whip up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Unique flavor combo that will impress even the most discerning taste buds.
- Crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Vibrant presentation that adds a pop of color to your table.
- Versatility allows you to serve over rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Dive into this captivating recipe and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken Ingredients
Discover the delightful components that make up this flavorful dish!
For the Glaze
- Raspberry preserves – This is your sweet base that adds creamy texture and vibrant flavor to the dish.
- Extra virgin olive oil – A healthy fat that helps to balance the sweetness with a rich, smooth finish.
- Soy sauce – This brings a touch of umami that complements the sweet raspberry preserves beautifully.
- Apple cider vinegar – Adds a tangy zest that elevates the flavor profile and balances the sweetness.
- Dijon mustard – Gives a hint of spice and sophistication to the glaze.
- Garlic – Minced for a fragrant kick that enhances the overall flavor.
- Kosher salt – Essential for drawing out the flavors and seasoning the dish perfectly.
- Black pepper – A dash adds subtle heat that complements the spices.
- Red pepper flakes – For an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs – These are juicy and tender, making for a perfect base to soak up the glaze.
- Kosher salt – Helps to season the chicken, making it flavorful and juicy.
- Black pepper – Adds a gentle warmth that enhances the overall taste.
- Chili powder – Introduces a warm, earthy note to the chicken, playing well with the sweetness of the glaze.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Another layer of richness that ensures the chicken is perfectly seared.
For the Topping
- Jalapeno pepper – Sliced thin for adding a spicy crunch that wakes up the dish.
- Fresh raspberries – These beautiful little gems not only add flavor but also make for a stunning presentation on the plate.
Now that you know what goes into this scrumptious Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken
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Combine the Glaze: In a medium bowl, mix together the raspberry preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well incorporated. Set this delightful mixture aside.
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Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Evenly apply this seasoning mixture to both sides of the chicken thighs.
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Heat the Skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. You might need to work in batches based on your skillet size.
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Cook the Chicken: Sear the chicken for 5 minutes on one side. Then, flip the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Keep Warm: After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Tent it with aluminum foil to keep warm while you prepare the glaze.
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Add Jalapenos and Glaze: In the same skillet, toss in the thinly sliced jalapeno peppers along with the raspberry glaze. Stir gently to combine, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the pan.
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Mix in Raspberries: Gently add the fresh raspberries to the skillet, stirring lightly to coat them in the glaze without breaking them apart too much.
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Combine & Heat Again: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the luscious glaze over the top, and cook until the chicken is heated through again, about 1 minute.
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Serve Immediately: Plate up your warm Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken and enjoy this vibrant, flavorful dish right away!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh raspberries for a stunning touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken
- Fridge: Store any leftover Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Covering: If you have leftover glaze, keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days, and drizzle it over the reheated chicken for an extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the raspberry glaze and season the chicken thighs up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate them in separate airtight containers. For the glaze, mix together the raspberry preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined, then store. On the day you plan to serve, cook the seasoned chicken thighs as directed, then toss them in the warmed glaze with jalapeños and raspberries for just as delicious results. This approach not only saves time but ensures your busy weeknights are stress-free and full of flavor!
Expert Tips for Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken
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Mix Well: Ensure the glaze ingredients are well combined for balanced flavor. Overlooking this can lead to uneven taste.
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Perfect Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F. Undercooking can lead to food safety issues.
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Don’t Rush It: Let the chicken rest tented with foil after cooking to keep it warm and juicy. Skipping this step might result in dry meat.
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Adjust Spice Level: For less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeño before slicing. This small step makes the Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken friendly for everyone.
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Fresh is Best: Use fresh raspberries for a burst of flavor and vibrant color. Frozen options can break apart too easily and dilute the sauce.
Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Spicy Twist: Add more sliced jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat, turning up the flavor dial even higher.
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Fruit Fusion: Swap out raspberries for strawberries or blackberries for a delightful change that still compliments the jalapeño beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
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Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into the glaze for a vibrant, aromatic twist that brightens up the dish.
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Baked Option: Instead of skillet cooking, bake your seasoned chicken thighs at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, ensuring juicy results while freeing up stovetop space.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or cashews before serving for a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall texture.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the glaze for a creamy element that balances the sweetness of the raspberries.
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Zesty Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish before serving to add a zesty brightness that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy flavors.
What to Serve with Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken?
The bright flavors of this dish deserve equally delightful companions to create a memorable meal experience.
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Fluffy Rice: A bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up the delicious raspberry glaze, creating a delightful harmony of textures.
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Zesty Quinoa Salad: A fresh quinoa salad with lime dressing brings a nutty flavor and crunch, creating a refreshing balance to the sweet and spicy chicken.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, warm garlic breadsticks offer a comforting bite that complements the main dish. Dip them in any leftover glaze for an extra treat.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, add a beautiful presentation and enhance the meal with earthy flavors.
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Crisp Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, keeping your palate lively amid the richness of the chicken.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A glass of chilled iced tea or homemade lemonade provides just the right touch of sweetness and acidity to elevate the flavors of the entire meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse rounds off the meal beautifully, contrasting nicely with the fruity flavors of the main dish while indulging those with a sweet tooth.
Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of raspberries should I use for the Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken?
Absolutely! Fresh raspberries are best for this dish. They provide a burst of flavor and vibrant color. Avoid using frozen raspberries as they tend to break apart and release excess moisture, which can dilute the glaze.
How long can I store leftover Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken in the refrigerator?
You can store any leftover Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down before sealing to ensure the best flavor and freshness.
Can I freeze Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken?
Very! To freeze, place the cooled chicken in an airtight, freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken?
For reheating, warmth is key! I recommend placing the chicken in a nonstick skillet over medium heat along with a splash of water or broth to maintain its moisture. Heat it through for about 5-7 minutes, spooning any leftover glaze over it to enhance the flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level in the dish?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply remove the seeds and white membranes from the jalapeno before slicing it, as they contain most of the heat. This little step helps make the Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken friendly for everyone’s taste buds!
Can my pets eat any ingredients from this recipe?
It’s important to note that while the chicken itself is generally safe for pets, many ingredients in this recipe are not suitable for them. Avoid giving your pets any food with spices, garlic, or seasonings present in the glaze, as these can be harmful. Always consult your vet if you’re unsure!
Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken in Just 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix together the raspberry preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well incorporated. Set this delightful mixture aside.
- In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Evenly apply this seasoning mixture to both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. You might need to work in batches based on your skillet size.
- Sear the chicken for 5 minutes on one side. Then, flip the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Tent it with aluminum foil to keep warm while you prepare the glaze.
- In the same skillet, toss in the thinly sliced jalapeno peppers along with the raspberry glaze. Stir gently to combine, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the pan.
- Gently add the fresh raspberries to the skillet, stirring lightly to coat them in the glaze without breaking them apart too much.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the luscious glaze over the top, and cook until the chicken is heated through again, about 1 minute.
- Plate up your warm Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken and enjoy this vibrant, flavorful dish right away!