This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty and colorful dish. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a bright and flavorful peach salsa, making it a hit at dinner time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for added juiciness. They have more flavor and tend to stay moist during cooking.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for this dish’s sweetness. If peaches are out of season, you could use canned peaches, but make sure to drain them well. Nectarines or mangoes also work nicely as substitutions!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps the spices stick to the chicken. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use avocado oil, which also has a high smoke point.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright freshness to the salsa. If you’re not a fan, parsley makes a good substitute without altering the taste too much.
Jalapeño: The jalapeño adds some heat. If you want to avoid spice, you can simply leave it out or use a milder pepper like bell pepper instead.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about the temperature and timing. Here’s how to ensure juicy and flavorful chicken:
- Preheat the grill properly; it should be hot before you start cooking. This helps to sear the chicken.
- Give the chicken some space on the grill. Avoid overcrowding, which can cause steaming.
- Flip the chicken just once or twice. This keeps the juices locked inside and lets you get those beautiful grill marks.
- Always check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken that’s still juicy.
Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling is crucial. This step lets the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender bite! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (plus one peach halved for grilling garnish)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Optional Sides:
- Grilled asparagus or your choice of vegetables
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to grill, for a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend grilling session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting those perfect grill marks and cooking the chicken evenly.
2. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a small bowl, mix together the diced peaches, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and set aside to let the flavors blend while you grill the chicken.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil. Season them on both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Make sure they’re all evenly coated for the best flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side. You want to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks.
5. Grill the Peaches:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add the halved peach (cut side down) to the grill. Grill until they have marks and soften slightly, then remove them.
6. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
7. Serve It Up:
Serve each grilled chicken breast topped with a generous spoonful of the peach salsa, and place the grilled peach slices on the side for a sweet touch.
8. Add your Sides:
Pair your peach salsa chicken with grilled asparagus or any favorite vegetable sides for a complete meal that’s bright and fresh!
Enjoy this lively and delicious Easy Peach Salsa Chicken that’s perfect for summer days or anytime you need a taste of something vibrant and fruity!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before grilling. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw.
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
If ripe peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with canned peaches (just make sure to drain them well) or try using diced mango or nectarines for a similar sweetness and texture in the salsa.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add more heat, consider using a spicier pepper, like serrano, instead of jalapeño, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salsa. Adjust to your heat preference to keep it enjoyable!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the microwave or on a stovetop. The salsa can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Just give it a stir before serving!
