This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a fun twist on dinner! Juicy chicken baked with sweet peach salsa makes for a tasty and colorful meal.
Trust me, even my picky eaters ask for seconds. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends! Just serve it with rice or chips and enjoy the happy faces!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay tender. You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches create a sweet and juicy salsa. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or even mango as an alternative for a tasty twist.
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and mild sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use green onions instead. They work well and add a pop of color!
Jalapeño: It gives the salsa heat! If you want less spice, either remove the seeds or swap it for a milder pepper like bell pepper or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, try using parsley for a different flavor profile without losing the freshness.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
The key to juicy grilled chicken is not to rush the cooking process. Here’s a simple way to ensure you get it just right:
- Start with a clean grill, preheating it to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season it generously to enhance flavor.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side; don’t move it around too much to get those delicious grill marks!
- Use a meat thermometer; once it reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s safe to eat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken that pairs beautifully with your peach salsa!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (plus 1 peach halved and grilled for serving)
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for salsa)
- 1 cup green beans (as side)
- Additional olive oil for sautéing or roasting green beans
Time Needed:
This recipe will take approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. This includes about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients, 15-20 minutes to cook, and a few minutes to assemble and serve. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, honey, and olive oil. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients together. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors blend while you cook the chicken.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes.
3. Grill the Peach Halves:
While the chicken is grilling, take the halved peach and place it cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peach softens slightly. Once done, remove from the grill and set aside.
4. Cook the Green Beans:
Toss the green beans with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper in a skillet or roasting pan. Cook them on medium heat until tender and slightly charred, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Assemble the Dish:
On each plate, place a grilled chicken breast and top it generously with peach salsa. Add the grilled peach halves next to the chicken and serve with the cooked green beans on the side.
6. Optional Garnish:
To finish, you can garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for extra color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
This dish combines smoky grilled chicken with juicy, sweet, and spicy peach salsa, making for a bright and fresh meal that’s perfect for summer, or any time you want a quick and flavorful dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before grilling. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight or by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Peaches?
If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with canned peaches (drained) or even mango for a slightly different flavor. Just ensure they are ripe or sweet enough for the salsa!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want extra heat, consider leaving some seeds in the jalapeño or adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the salsa. You can also serve it with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who love it fiery!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach salsa a few hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it even tastier when you serve it!
