This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken topped with sweet and spicy peach salsa makes for a colorful and fun meal that everyone will love.
Honestly, who knew chicken could get a fruity makeover? I enjoy serving it with rice or tortilla chips for that extra crunch. It’s a simple crowd-pleaser! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are fantastic for this recipe as they stay moist and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, go for chicken thighs, which are more flavorful and juicy.
Peaches: Ripe peaches offer sweetness and flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to use canned peaches in juice (not syrup) or substitute with ripe mangoes for a tropical twist.
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite to the salsa. If red onion feels too strong, try using green onions or even diced shallots for a milder taste.
Jalapeño: If you want to skip the heat, you can leave it out completely, or substitute it with diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the flavor. For those who aren’t fans, parsley works great too, or even fresh basil for a different spin.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can achieve that perfect cook! The key is to ensure your chicken is evenly cooked without drying out.
- First, make sure your grill or pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Avoid flipping too often to allow it to develop a good crust.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once done, let the chicken rest under foil for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it juicy!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
- 1 peach, halved and grilled for serving/garnish
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the salsa)
- 1 cup fresh green beans or another preferred vegetable, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes seasoning and grilling the chicken, then making a fresh peach salsa, and finally preparing some green beans to go along with it. Dinner is ready quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. This will create a nice, tasty surface for the chicken to cook on!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Once the pan is hot, carefully place the chicken in it. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the pan, cover it with foil, and let it rest for a few minutes.
3. Grill Peach Halves:
While the chicken is cooking, take your peach halves, brush them lightly with some olive oil, and grill them in the pan for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they soften and get nice grill marks. Set these aside for plating later!
4. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a bowl, mix together the diced peaches, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), chopped cilantro, lime juice, honey, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir everything gently until combined, so it’s all mixed together nicely.
5. Prepare Your Side:
For a fresh side, sauté or steam your green beans until they’re tender-crisp. Sprinkle them with a little salt to enhance the flavor.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Now it’s time to plate! Place the grilled chicken on a plate, and spoon a generous helping of peach salsa over the top. Add the grilled peach halves and the vibrant green beans next to the chicken.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the dish right away while everything is still warm. Enjoy the sweet, slightly spicy flavors of your easy peach salsa chicken meal that’s refreshing and perfect for a light dinner!
This dish truly shines with the combination of smoky grilled chicken, sweet peaches, and a fresh salsa. It’s a favorite for those warm summer nights!
FAQ: Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is overnight in the fridge or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches aren’t available, you can substitute them with ripe mangoes or nectarines for a similar sweet flavor. Canned peaches in juice (not syrup) would also work well in a pinch!
Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and peach salsa a few hours ahead. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. Just be sure to reheat the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, and add the salsa right before serving for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The peach salsa is best fresh, so consider making it fresh if you have leftovers!
