This easy grilled chicken is a summer favorite! It sizzles on the grill and pairs perfectly with a sweet peach chipotle sauce that adds a fun kick!
I love making this dish for barbecues. The sauce is so tasty that I sometimes use it as a dip for veggies, too! Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra juiciness. Just adjust cooking time as needed, since thighs take a bit longer than breasts.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches are best for sweetness and texture. If peaches aren’t in season, use canned peaches, but reduce the cooking time for the sauce to avoid mushiness.
Chipotle Pepper: This adds a smoky flavor and some heat. If you want less spice, reduce the amount or use a dash of smoked paprika instead. For another flavor profile, try using a bit of barbecue sauce!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work well, but if you need a sugar-free option, swap for agave or a sugar substitute. Each will give a slightly different taste, so choose what you love!
How Do I Get Juicy Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tricky, but a few tips can help! The key is to ensure it’s evenly shaped and properly seasoned.
- Start with chicken breasts that are about the same thickness. If some are thicker, pound them down to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat your grill. A hot grill helps sear the outside, keeping juices inside. If you can, use a meat thermometer to check for that perfect 165°F (75°C) temperature.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This wraps up cooking and keeps it juicy. Cover it with foil for a few minutes before serving.
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (for sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes to get this delicious dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, fire up your grill and set it to medium-high heat. A hot grill will give you those beautiful sear marks and keep the chicken juicy!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it well! Rub this flavorful seasoning all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are nicely coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is ready, place the seasoned chicken on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. When done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
4. Prepare the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Then, add the diced peaches, chipotle pepper, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the peaches soften and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Your sweet peach chipotle sauce is ready!
6. Serve:
Slice the grilled chicken and serve it topped generously with the delicious peach chipotle sauce. This dish goes great with rice or a fresh salad if you want to make it a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and colorful grilled chicken with a perfect balance of sweet and smoky heat!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method: place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in the Sauce?
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chipotle pepper. Alternatively, you can use just a small pinch of chipotle powder instead of the whole pepper for a gentler spice. For more heat, feel free to add an extra chipotle or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and peach chipotle sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last about 5 days. Reheat chicken gently on the stovetop or microwave, and warm the sauce before serving.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the peach chipotle sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it on the stove before serving, adding a splash of water or extra vinegar if it thickens too much in the fridge.
