Description
This Sweet and Spicy Jalapeño Raspberry Chicken combines tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection and coated in a vibrant glaze made from raspberry preserves, soy sauce, and a hint of heat from jalapeños and red pepper flakes. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it 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 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix raspberry preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Evenly season both sides of the chicken thighs with this spice mixture for a balanced flavor base.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Sear the chicken for 5 minutes on one side to develop a golden crust, then flip.
- Finish Cooking Chicken: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the chicken for an additional 5 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are perfectly cooked and juicy.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the glaze in the skillet.
- Prepare the Glaze in Skillet: In the same skillet, add the sliced jalapeño peppers and the previously prepared raspberry glaze. Stir gently, scraping any browned bits from the pan to enhance flavor.
- Add Fresh Raspberries: Gently fold in the fresh raspberries, stirring lightly to coat them in the glaze without crushing them, preserving their delicate texture and burst of flavor.
- Reheat Chicken in Glaze: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon the luscious glaze over them. Cook for about 1 minute more, just until the chicken is heated through and fully glazed.
- Serve: Plate the warm Jalapeño Raspberry Chicken immediately to enjoy the vibrant combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for the best balance of juiciness and flavor absorption.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes and jalapeño slices depending on your preferred spice level.
- Make sure to not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and moist.
- Fresh raspberries should be added gently to avoid crushing and maintaining their texture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: sweet and spicy chicken, jalapeno raspberry chicken, raspberry chicken glaze, quick chicken recipe, stovetop chicken, spicy chicken thighs
