This Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a fun mix of sweet and spicy! Juicy chicken is cooked with zesty jalapenos and fresh peaches, making every bite exciting.
It’s perfect for a summer meal! I love how the sweetness of peaches balances the heat. Just serve it with rice or a side salad, and you’re all set for a tasty dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless breasts for their tenderness and quick cooking time. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness, but if they’re out of season, canned peaches in juice work well too! Just make sure to drain them before using.
Jalapenos: Adjust the amount based on your spice level preference. You can substitute with mild green chilies for a less spicy dish or even use red bell peppers for added sweetness.
Honey: If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes. Both will maintain the sweet touch in the sauce!
How Do You Get Your Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s all about maintaining the right heat. Start with medium-high heat to get a good sear, and then lower it after flipping to cook through without burning.
- Season the chicken well before cooking for flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (or 1 cup fresh peach slices)
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste for spice)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir them together so they are well mixed.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and rub the spice mixture all over them. Make sure they are evenly coated for the best flavor. Set the chicken aside while you heat the skillet.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Saute the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped red onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and soft.
5. Add Peppers and Peaches:
Next, add the chopped jalapenos and sliced peaches to the skillet. Cook everything for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the peaches to soften and release their juicy goodness.
6. Create the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the honey and lime juice. Stir them in and let the mixture cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes syrupy.
7. Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken to the skillet, placing it back in the sauce. Spoon the peach-jalapeno mixture over the chicken. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
8. Serve:
Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro leaves if you’d like. Serve the Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken hot with your choice of sides, such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen chicken before cooking. The best methods for thawing include leaving it in the fridge overnight or placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results.
Can I Substitute the Peaches with Another Fruit?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, you can use nectarines, mangoes, or even canned pineapple. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness with a touch of honey or sugar if necessary.
How Spicy Is This Dish?
The heat level depends on how much jalapeno you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, use only one jalapeno or omit the seeds, which contain the most heat. For an extra kick, feel free to add more jalapenos or even some red pepper flakes.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
