This Easy Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a fun blend of sweet and spicy! Juicy chicken is cooked with fresh peaches and a kick from jalapeños—perfect for a summer dinner.
Trust me, the combination is a winner. I love how the sweet peaches balance the heat. It’s like a party on your plate! 🎉 Just toss everything together and let the oven do the work!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer a different protein, try using boneless thighs or even firm fish like salmon.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches are key for sweetness and flavor. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with canned peaches in their juice or use nectarines for a similar taste.
Jalapeños: These peppers add a nice kick! If you want less spice, you can use poblano or bell peppers, or even skip them entirely. Conversely, for more heat, use serrano peppers instead.
Smoked Paprika: This adds depth to the dish. You can substitute regular paprika if you don’t have smoked, though you’ll miss that smoky flavor.
Honey: Honey balances the heat of the jalapeños beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use maple syrup or agave nectar.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Golden Brown?
Searing the chicken is super important for flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This gives you that golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Leave the chicken alone for 3-4 minutes on each side before flipping. This will help create a nice crust.
Following these tips will ensure your chicken is not only cooked perfectly but also deliciously browned! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
- 1 lime, juiced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the chicken once you’ve prepared it.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats up, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Jalapeños and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and the finely chopped jalapeños. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add Peaches and Honey:
Next, add the sliced peaches and honey to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the peaches start to soften. You’ll love the sweet aroma that fills your kitchen!
5. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Transfer the jalapeño and peach mixture to a baking dish and arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of the peach mixture. Drizzle fresh lime juice over everything to add a zesty flavor!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if you like, and serve the warm Jalapeno Peach Chicken right away. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Now sit back and enjoy your flavorful, sweet, and spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken! 🥳🍑🌶️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing.
Can I Substitute the Peaches with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines, plums, or even canned peaches (drained). Just be aware that canned peaches may be softer, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
How Spicy Is This Recipe? Can I Reduce the Heat?
The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use. For less heat, you can use just one jalapeño or even substitute with a bell pepper. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños to lessen the spice further.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
