This Easy Thai Peach Chicken is a tasty mix of sweet peaches and tender chicken, all coated in a simple, flavorful sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who wouldn’t love a dinner that tastes like a mini vacation? I often serve it over rice, and it’s so satisfying. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work too! Both are delicious choices. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring a lovely sweetness, but if they’re out of season, use canned peaches in juice—just drain them well. For a different flavor, try pineapple cubes or even mango for a tropical touch.
Vegetable Oil: Any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed works well here. If you want a little extra flavor, consider using sesame oil, but be aware it has a stronger taste.
Sauces: Soy sauce is key for saltiness, while fish sauce adds depth. If you’re avoiding fish, use soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free). Honey can be swapped for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist, it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Here are some tips:
- Cook in a hot skillet to get that nice browning quickly.
- Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through (no longer pink in the center) and set it aside. It will finish cooking slightly when mixed with the other ingredients.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly tender chicken in your Thai Peach Chicken recipe!
How to Make Easy Thai Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or 1 fresh red chili, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Optional: cooked jasmine rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Thai Peach Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and colorful dish that’s perfect for any weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing Garlic and Ginger:
In the same skillet, you can add a little more oil if needed. Next, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. This will help bring out those delicious flavors!
3. Adding Veggies and Peaches:
Now add the sliced red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook it for about 2 minutes until it’s slightly tender. After that, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet. Gently fold in the peach slices; they will add a lovely sweetness to the dish.
4. Creating the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), and chili garlic sauce. Pour this sauce over the chicken and peaches in the skillet. Stir gently to combine everything and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. You want the sauce to thicken a bit and the peaches to soften slightly.
5. Final Touches:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed! If you like it spicier, feel free to add more chili; if you’d like it sweeter, add a touch more honey. Once you’re happy, remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Serving the Dish:
Garnish with chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves for that extra crunch and freshness. Serve immediately over cooked jasmine rice if you like, and enjoy your vibrant, sweet, and savory Easy Thai Peach Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Thai Peach Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat it dry before adding to the skillet for better browning.
What Can I Use Instead of Peaches?
If peaches are out of season or unavailable, feel free to substitute with canned pineapple or mango for a similar sweet flavor. Just make sure to drain canned fruit well before adding it to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat through evenly. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, you can add more chili garlic sauce or fresh sliced chili when cooking. You might also try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to kick up the heat even more!
