I’m so excited to share this delicious and unique dish with you: Jalapeño Peach Chicken! This recipe is a delightful concoction that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, and it’s one of my absolute favorites for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. I still remember the first time I made this dish; my friend brought over a basket of fresh peaches from her orchard, and I felt inspired to get a little creative in the kitchen. The result? A mouthwatering chicken dish that had everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds – no judgment here!).
What makes this recipe truly special are the luscious peaches that pair oh-so-well with the kick of jalapeño. You can adjust the heat to your liking, so whether you’re spice-averse or looking to scorch some taste buds, this dish has got you covered! Plus, it’s super simple and quick to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.
What’s in Jalapeño Peach Chicken?
Let’s break down this gorgeous selection of ingredients that brings this dish to life:
Chicken Thighs: I’m a big fan of chicken thighs because they’re juicy and flavorful, whether you choose bone-in or boneless. They hold up beautifully in the cooking process, making them perfect for simmering.
Olive Oil: A staple in my kitchen! I love using good quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing because it adds depth and richness to the dish.
Salt and Black Pepper: The essentials! A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing all the other flavors.
Garlic Powder: I like to keep things simple with garlic powder for convenience, but feel free to use fresh minced garlic if you’re feeling fancy!
Brown Sugar: This adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the spicy jalapeños and tart peaches.
Chicken Broth: I always opt for low-sodium broth for better control over seasoning. It’s the foundation of the sauce!
Fresh Peaches: Juicy, sweet peaches are the star of the show here! If they’re in season, grab them fresh; if not, frozen will work in a pinch!
Jalapeño Pepper: Adjustable spice is key here! I usually slice them and leave the seeds in for a good kick, but you can also remove them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Soy Sauce: It brings umami depth to the dish and complements the sweetness of the peaches beautifully.
Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acidity to brighten up the flavors and balance everything out.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note; however, dried thyme works just as well if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish, of course! It adds a touch of freshness and color to your plate.
Is Jalapeño Peach Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely, yes! This dish is not just a treat for the taste buds but also packs quite a nutritional punch:
Chicken Thighs: A great source of protein and essential nutrients. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on fat intake.
Peaches: Loaded with vitamins A and C, they’re fantastic for your skin and immune system. Plus, they offer fiber that’s great for digestion!
Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, it’s a heart-healthy choice.
Jalapeño: Besides the spice, they are known to have metabolism-boosting properties and are high in vitamins.
Be aware of the sugar content if you’re watching your blood sugar levels, since the brown sugar may add some extra sweetness.
Ingredients
– 6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh peaches, sliced (about 4 medium peaches)
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (adjust based on heat preference)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 people, making it excellent for dinners or meal prep!
How to Make Jalapeño Peach Chicken?
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Sear for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced peaches and jalapeños. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the peaches are slightly softened.
4. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and thyme. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them among the peaches and jalapeños. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high for a few minutes to thicken the sauce if desired.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy this sweet and spicy dish with your favorite side, such as rice or a salad!
Serving Suggestions and Fun Variations
Consider serving this dish over fluffy rice or alongside a crisp salad for the perfect meal! You could swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer, but remember that they may cook a bit faster and require careful attention to avoid drying out. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some sliced bell peppers or a bit of corn for added color and flavor!
I truly hope you try this Jalapeño Peach Chicken! It’s a real crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Please share your experiences with me—I’d love to hear how you made it your own! Happy cooking!
