This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a fun twist on dinner. Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with sweet and tangy peach salsa to make your taste buds sing!
Trust me, the bright flavors of peaches and spices will make everyone at the table happy. I love serving it with rice or tortillas – it’s just so tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe, but you can swap them for thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. For a meatless option, grilled tofu works nicely!
Peaches: Fresh peaches are key for that sweet salsa. If peaches aren’t in season, use canned peaches (drained) or swap for mangoes for a tropical touch.
Red Onion: The sharpness of red onion adds great flavor, but you can use green onions for a milder taste. If you need it milder still, try sweet Vidalia onions.
Jalapeño: If you like heat, keep it in; for mild flavor, skip it or use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead. If you want a hint of heat without spicy, use a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Cilantro: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley or mint can be tasty substitutes for a fresh herb boost in the salsa.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken to perfection can be tricky, but it’s all about preparation and attention. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with room temperature chicken – this helps it cook evenly.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill means good sear marks!
- Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes, but don’t flip too soon! Wait until it naturally releases from the grill.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/75°C) for juicy results.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps keep the juices in!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for grilling peaches and green beans
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 cup fresh peaches, diced (for salsa)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total. About 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for grilling and assembling everything. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Peaches:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the halved peaches with a little olive oil. Place them cut side down on the grill and grill for about 3-4 minutes. You want those nice grill marks and for the peaches to soften up. Once done, take them off the grill and set aside.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Next, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure they are cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). After grilling, let them rest for a few minutes to keep them juicy.
3. Cook the Green Beans:
While the chicken is grilling, toss the trimmed green beans in olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can grill them or sauté them in a pan. Cook until they’re nicely browned and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a mixing bowl, create your peach salsa by combining the diced fresh peaches, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño (if you’re using it), lime juice, honey, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all together to mix the flavors.
5. Serve It Up:
Slice the grilled chicken breasts and place them on plates. Top each piece with the peach salsa. Serve with the grilled peach halves and green beans on the side.
6. Time to Dig In!
Enjoy your vibrant and fresh Easy Peach Salsa Chicken, savoring the balance of sweet and savory flavors with every bite!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for the Salsa?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing. While the texture may be a bit softer than fresh peaches, they will still provide a delicious flavor!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, you can add more jalapeño or include some red pepper flakes in the salsa. For a smoky flavor, try using chipotle peppers or smoked paprika, which adds both heat and depth.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach salsa ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep the chicken components separate until you’re ready to grill to maintain freshness.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying it out. The salsa can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature!
