This Easy Peach Chicken is a tasty dish where juicy chicken meets sweet peaches and a zesty balsamic glaze. It’s simple to make and perfect for summer dinners!
You’ll love how the peaches caramelize a bit and complement the chicken. I often serve it with rice to soak up that yummy glaze—trust me, you won’t want to miss a drop! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for their ease in cooking. If you’re looking for a healthier option, go for chicken thighs which are a bit juicier. For a plant-based alternative, try firm tofu or tempeh, marinated and grilled.
Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the best flavor! If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or even nectarines as a tasty substitute. Both will still give a nice sweetness to the dish.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add fresh flavor and juiciness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, use regular tomatoes but chop them into small pieces. Sun-dried tomatoes can also work; just cut down on the cooking time for these.
Balsamic Vinegar: This vinegar gives a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have balsamic, try red wine vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar or honey for a similar effect.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds lovely aroma. If you can’t find fresh basil, try using dried oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly so it stays juicy can be tricky, but with these steps, you’ll nail it!
- Start with chicken at room temperature. Let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to help it cook more evenly.
- Don’t rush it! Sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown before flipping. This builds a nice crust to seal in juices.
- Make sure your skillet isn’t too crowded. If it is, the chicken will steam instead of brown, leading to a dry texture.
- Using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips should give you perfectly juicy chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick, delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will add great flavor to your dish.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until they are golden brown on each side and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken is ready when it has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to keep warm.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring often until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Add the Peaches and Tomatoes:
Throw in the sliced peaches and halved cherry tomatoes into the skillet. Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peaches start to soften and the tomatoes release their juices. This process will create a lovely burst of flavors!
5. Make the Glaze:
Next, pour the balsamic vinegar into the pan. If you like it a bit sweeter, add the honey or maple syrup. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly and turn into a nice glaze.
6. Combine and Heat:
Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the peach and tomato mixture over the chicken. Allow everything to heat together for another 2 minutes, giving it a chance for the flavors to meld deliciously.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Before serving, sprinkle the sliced fresh basil over the chicken and peach mixture. This adds freshness and an aromatic touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this beautiful dish warm, ideally with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up that delightful balsamic peach glaze. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best method is to defrost it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the quick method by placing the sealed chicken in a bowl of cold water for about an hour.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can substitute it with dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor. Use about a teaspoon of dried herbs, as they are more concentrated than fresh. Alternatively, try using parsley for a fresh touch!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, making sure to stir occasionally for even heating. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent the chicken from becoming rubbery.
