This Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a zesty treat! Juicy chicken is paired with sweet peaches and a kick from jalapenos, making it a meal that sings with flavor.
It’s the perfect mix of sweet and spicy, so don’t be surprised if you end up dancing in the kitchen while cooking! 🍑🌶️ I love serving it with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you want a different texture, you could use thighs for more flavor or even cubed tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and perfect for this dish. If they’re out of season, canned peaches (drained) work well in a pinch. Apricots could also be a delicious alternative!
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos add a nice heat, but you can adjust the heat level to your liking. If you want it milder, try using poblano peppers, or remove the seeds from the jalapenos entirely. For extra kick, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes!
Peach Preserves: If you’re out of peach preserves, apricot or even orange marmalade can give a similar sweet base. Homemade fruit preserves can also replace store-bought ones if you have them on hand.
How Can You Ensure Juicy Chicken?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is key to this dish. Searing first adds flavor and helps keep moisture inside. Here’s how to do it:
- Be sure to preheat your skillet before adding the olive oil.
- Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes without moving it, letting a nice crust form.
- Flip and repeat on the other side. Aim for golden brown, not burnt!
- Using a meat thermometer can help. Look for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through but not dry.
Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps keep it juicy as well!
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and sliced
- 2 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup peach preserves or jam
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20-25 minutes for cooking, making a total time of approximately 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with tons of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and comes out juicy and flavorful.
2. Prepare the Spicy Peach Glaze:
In a medium bowl, mix together the peach preserves, chopped jalapenos, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well to create a delicious spicy glaze full of flavor!
3. Season the Chicken:
Lightly season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavors of the chicken when cooked.
4. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. This step locks in moisture and flavor!
5. Add the Glaze and Peaches:
Pour the spicy peach glaze over the seared chicken. Make sure to cover them nicely! Then, arrange the sliced peaches on top of the chicken for extra sweetness.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. This ensures it’s cooked all the way through.
7. Final Touches:
Once baked, take the skillet out of the oven. Spoon some extra glaze over the top of the chicken for added flavor, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to give it a lovely pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken warm, preferably over a bed of rice, or alongside a fresh salad to balance out the sweetness and spice. Enjoy your delightful meal!
FAQ for Spicy Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before starting the recipe. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for a quicker method. Pat them dry before searing for best results!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Jalapenos?
If fresh jalapenos aren’t available, you can use pickled jalapenos for a similar flavor with a bit of tang. Alternatively, red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can substitute for the heat; just adjust to taste so it doesn’t overpower the dish!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to bring it back to life!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the spice level, you can add more jalapenos, including the seeds, or mix in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the glaze. Just keep tasting as you go to find the perfect heat level for your preference!
