Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken

I love quick dinners that wow the table, and Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken does just that. I wrote this recipe to be fast, bright, and bold so you can get dinner on the table and still feel proud of the flavors.

Dad James first tasted a version of this and called it “inventive,” while Mom Eva asked for seconds and Sister Jennifer wanted the recipe note card. I still smile when I think of that night.

Gathering Your Ingredients

• 1 cup raspberry preserves (This is your sweet base that adds creamy texture and vibrant flavor to the dish.)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (A healthy fat that helps to balance the sweetness with a rich, smooth finish.)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (Brings a touch of umami that complements the sweet raspberry preserves beautifully.)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (Adds a tangy zest that elevates the flavor profile and balances the sweetness.)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (Gives a hint of spice and sophistication to the glaze.)
• 2 cloves garlic (Minced for a fragrant kick that enhances the overall flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Essential for drawing out the flavors and seasoning the dish perfectly.)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (A dash adds subtle heat that complements the spices.)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (For an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (These are juicy and tender, making for a perfect base to soak up the glaze.)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (Helps to season the chicken, making it flavorful and juicy.)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (Adds a gentle warmth that enhances the overall taste.)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (Introduces a warm, earthy note to the chicken, playing well with the sweetness of the glaze.)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (Another layer of richness that ensures the chicken is perfectly seared.)
• 1 medium jalapeno pepper (Thinly sliced for adding a spicy crunch that wakes up the dish.)
• 1 cup fresh raspberries (These beautiful little gems not only add flavor but also make for a stunning presentation on the plate.)

The Tools That Help

I keep this one simple: a nonstick skillet, a small bowl, tongs, a sharp knife, and a cutting board. If you like sheet pan meals, you can find a related method in my pineapple chicken and rice post for more ideas on easy weeknight chicken dishes.

The Step-by-Step Process

• Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
• Heat oil in a skillet over medium high heat.
• Sear chicken 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
• Remove chicken and let rest on a plate.
• In the same skillet, add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in raspberry preserves, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
• Bring glaze to a simmer and cook until slightly thick, about 2 minutes.
• Return chicken to the skillet and spoon glaze over to coat.
• Add sliced jalapeno and warm for 30 seconds.
• Plate chicken and scatter fresh raspberries on top.

Lighter, Healthier Touches

I like to swap half the preserves for fresh mashed raspberries to cut sugar and add bright fruit. For a leaner protein, use boneless skinless chicken breasts and lower the oil. For another lighter sheet pan idea try my sheet pan chicken and sweet potatoes post for inspiration.

Perfect Pairings

Serve with steamed green beans, a simple arugula salad, or coconut rice. A cold crisp white wine or a light beer pairs nicely with the sweet and spicy mix.

Common Stumbles to Avoid

• Don’t skip resting the chicken; it keeps the meat juicy.
• Avoid burning the garlic; lower the heat if it browns too fast.
• If the glaze gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.

Storing Your Creation

Cool the chicken, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the glaze glossy.

A Final Warm Word

I love how this dish looks and how fast it comes together. Make it when you want bold flavor with little fuss, and save the recipe note for the nights you need a real crowd pleaser.

Answering Your Questions

How long does Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken take to make?

I time this at about 20 to 25 minutes from start to finish, including searing and glazing. Prep fast and keep your ingredients close.

Can I make Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken ahead of time?

Yes. You can cook it ahead and reheat gently. The jalapeno is best added fresh or just before serving so it keeps its snap.

Is Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken very spicy?

It has a bright heat, but you control it. Remove seeds from the jalapeno or skip the red pepper flakes to make it milder.

Sweet and Spicy Jalapeno Raspberry Chicken

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• Author: sarah
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A quick and flavorful dish that combines sweet raspberry preserves with spicy jalapenos and tender chicken.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup fresh raspberries

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Instructions

1. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
4. Remove chicken and let it rest on a plate.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in raspberry preserves, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring glaze to a simmer and cook until slightly thick, about 2 minutes.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon glaze over to coat.
9. Add sliced jalapeno and warm for 30 seconds.
10. Plate chicken and scatter fresh raspberries on top.

Notes

Letting the chicken rest keeps it juicy. Avoid burning garlic by lowering heat if necessary.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken, quick dinner, spicy, raspberry, jalapeno