This grilled chicken is bursting with flavor thanks to a sweet and spicy peach chipotle sauce. It’s the perfect mix of tangy and smoky that makes your taste buds cheer!
Honestly, who knew peaches could bring so much fun to dinner? 🍑 Plus, cooking the chicken on the grill gives it those beautiful char marks and a tasty smoky flavor. Yum!
I love serving this chicken with a side of rice or a fresh salad. It’s a big hit at summer barbecues. Who wouldn’t want to bite into this delicious combo? Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey cutlets, or for a plant-based version, grilled tofu works great too!
Peaches: Ripe peaches add a nice sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen peaches — just thaw and drain them. Canned peaches work too, but look for those in juice instead of syrup.
Chipotle Powder: This adds smokiness and heat. If you want milder flavor, reduce the amount. You can also substitute it with smoked paprika for a similar taste without the heat.
Honey: This sweetener balances the flavors. Maple syrup is a perfect substitute if you need a vegan option. Adjust the amount based on your taste or sweetness preferences!
Fresh Cilantro: While I love the brightness cilantro adds, if you’re not a fan, consider using parsley or green onions for garnish instead.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about the preparation and timing. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps sear the chicken and lock in moisture. Next, brushing the chicken with olive oil keeps it juicy.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper just before grilling. This enhances the flavor.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness — 165°F (75°C) is the goal.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices, making every bite tasty!
By following these tips, you’ll serve up delicious grilled chicken every time!
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder (or 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Optional:
- Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and grilling the chicken, plus another 5-7 minutes making the peach chipotle sauce. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. This is important to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the grill is heating up, take the chicken breasts and brush them with olive oil. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides for flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on the grill. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Make the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, combine the diced peaches, finely chopped red onion, chipotle powder (or minced chipotle peppers), honey, apple cider vinegar, and fresh lime juice. Turn the heat to medium and cook the sauce for 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the peaches become soft and the sauce thickens a bit.
5. Serve the Chicken:
After letting the chicken rest, place each piece on a plate. Spoon a generous amount of the peach chipotle sauce over each chicken breast for a burst of flavor!
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a nice touch. Feel free to serve the chicken with cooked rice or quinoa on the side to make it a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with a sweet and spicy twist!
Can I Use Other Types of Fruit for the Sauce?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute them with mangoes or apricots for a similar sweet and tangy profile. Just chop them up and follow the same steps in the sauce preparation!
What If I Don’t Have Chipotle Powder?
No worries! You can use smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor or, if you enjoy some heat, use cayenne pepper. If you have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, just mince one or two and add them to the sauce for that authentic kick!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken and Sauce?
Store any leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or a skillet, and reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Cook the Chicken in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You may want to drizzle a little olive oil on top to keep it moist.
