This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty twist on a classic dish! Juicy chicken meets sweet peach salsa for a flavor explosion that’s refreshing and delightful.
It’s perfect for summer BBQs or a quick weeknight dinner. I love serving it with rice or chips, and, honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a fruity kick with their chicken? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are key to the flavor, but if they’re out of season, canned peaches (drained) or mango can work well in the salsa!
Olive Oil: This adds richness. For a different flavor, feel free to swap it with avocado oil or melted butter when grilling.
Jalapeño: This is optional for heat. If you prefer milder salsa, try using a bit of bell pepper or simply omit it.
Cilantro: This ingredient brightens the salsa. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley works as a nice substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken and Peaches?
Grilling gives a smoky flavor and beautiful char to both chicken and peaches. Here’s how to get great results:
- Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat to medium-high for juicy chicken.
- Oil and Season: Lightly oil the chicken and peaches, seasoning them well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Monitor Cook Time: For chicken, aim for 6-8 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
- Don’t Overcook Peaches: Once they have grill marks and soften slightly (3-4 mins), remove to avoid mushiness.
- Let Chicken Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. It helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
With these tips, you’ll create perfectly grilled chicken and peaches every time!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for grilling)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Peach Salsa:
- 1 ripe peach, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For a Side:
- 1 cup fresh green beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and rewarding meal that’s full of flavor! Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill or Grill Pan:
Start by heating your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly brush the peach halves and chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken for flavor.
2. Grill Peaches:
Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they start to soften. Once done, carefully remove them from the grill and set aside.
3. Grill Chicken:
Now it’s time to grill the chicken! Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before taking them off the grill. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
4. Prepare Peach Salsa:
While your chicken is grilling, make the peach salsa. In a bowl, mix the diced peach, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeño (if you like a little kick), cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Cook Green Beans:
In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the fresh green beans until they’re tender and slightly blistered, about 5-7 minutes. Season them with salt to taste.
6. Serve:
Slice the grilled chicken breasts and top them with your delicious peach salsa. Serve alongside the grilled peach halves and sautéed green beans for a colorful and fresh meal!
Enjoy your fresh and vibrant Easy Peach Salsa Chicken meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before grilling. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat it dry before grilling for the best results!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
To add more heat, increase the amount of jalapeño in the salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy!
Can I Prepare the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the peach salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will allow the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier when you serve it!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. The salsa can be served cold or at room temperature!
