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Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken Recipe

4.4 from 95 reviews

Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring juicy seared chicken thighs glazed with a tangy and sweet raspberry sauce infused with jalapeno heat. This recipe combines the fruity sweetness of raspberry preserves with the spicy kick of fresh jalapenos and chili powder, balanced by savory soy sauce and garlic for a delightful fusion of tastes perfect for an impressive yet easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Glaze

  • 1 cup raspberry preserves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Topping

  • 1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup fresh raspberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine raspberry preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, then set aside.
  2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Evenly coat both sides of the chicken thighs with this seasoning blend to ensure flavorful meat.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken thighs carefully, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 5 minutes on one side until nicely browned.
  4. Cook Chicken Through: Flip the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat meat.
  5. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Tent with aluminum foil to keep warm while preparing the glaze and toppings.
  6. Make the Glaze in Skillet: Add the sliced jalapeno peppers to the same skillet and pour in the prepared glaze mixture. Stir gently to combine, scraping the bottom to incorporate any browned bits for extra flavor.
  7. Add Fresh Raspberries: Carefully fold in the fresh raspberries, stirring lightly so they meld into the glaze without breaking apart too much, preserving their burst of flavor and texture.
  8. Finish Cooking: Return the chicken to the skillet, spoon the luscious glaze over each piece, and cook together for about 1 minute to reheat and coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
  9. Serve: Plate the warm Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken immediately, garnished with the jalapenos and raspberries from the glaze. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.

Notes

  • Cooking chicken thighs rather than breasts helps retain moisture and complements the glaze’s bold flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of jalapeno and red pepper flakes to control the spice level to your preference.
  • Use fresh raspberries for the best texture; frozen raspberries may release too much juice and alter the glaze consistency.
  • Make sure to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad to balance the sweet and spicy profile.

Keywords: jalapeno chicken, raspberry chicken glaze, sweet and spicy chicken, skillet chicken, summer dinner, quick chicken recipe