This Easy Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a fun mix of sweet and spicy! Imagine juicy chicken cooked with peach slices and a touch of kick from jalapenos—it’s a flavor party!
I love making this dish on busy nights. It’s simple to prepare, and the sweet and spicy blend always impresses my family. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a little heat with their sweet? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They are juicy and cook faster. If you prefer, you can use breasts, but keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring the best flavor, but you can use frozen ones if that’s what you have. Just let them thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat level by removing the seeds or using fewer jalapeños. If you need a milder option, try bell peppers, or for extra heat, use serrano peppers!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Honey adds sweetness, but maple syrup works great if you have it on hand and want a different flavor. Agave syrup is another good alternative.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish. To ensure it’s juicy, follow these steps:
- Preheat your skillet before adding the chicken to get a good sear. This locks in juices.
- Cook on medium-high heat to encourage browning without burning. Aim for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
Letting the chicken rest for a minute after cooking helps the juices redistribute. This way, it stays tender and flavorful!
Easy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced (fresh or frozen/thawed)
- 1-2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and seasoning the chicken, then around 20 minutes cooking everything up to perfection. It’s a quick and delicious dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Make sure they’re well-coated for great flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Get it nice and hot so our chicken can sear beautifully.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté Garlic and Jalapeños:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and thinly sliced jalapeños. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and the jalapeños start to soften a bit.
5. Add the Peaches:
Now, add the peach slices and cook them for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to soften but not fall apart, creating a delicious summery flavor.
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water), honey (or maple syrup), and fresh lime juice. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly, coating the peaches and jalapeños with flavor.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the delicious peach-jalapeño sauce over the top, and cook everything together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
8. Finish with Butter:
For a rich, glossy finish, stir in the butter right at the end and then remove the skillet from the heat.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, and it’s ready to enjoy! Serve this dish with some steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Enjoy the delightful mix of juicy peaches, spicy jalapeño, and tender chicken! 🍑🌶️
FAQ About Easy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, just ensure they are fully thawed and drained of excess liquid before adding them to the skillet. This will help maintain the dish’s texture and prevent excess moisture.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, remove the jalapeño seeds or use just one jalapeño. You can also replace jalapeños with bell peppers for a sweeter, non-spicy version. For extra heat, consider adding more jalapeños or using a spicier pepper like serrano!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to keep the chicken moist, or use the microwave in short intervals.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You might also enjoy some crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce!
