This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken brings a fun twist to your meal! Juicy chicken is topped with sweet and tangy peach salsa for the perfect summer flavor.
You’ll love how simple it is to make. Just bake the chicken and spoon on that vibrant salsa—easy peasy! It’s like a sunny party on your plate! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option. You can also swap in turkey breasts for a different flavor!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches add sweetness and brightness. If they’re out of season, nectarines can work too. Canned peaches in juice can be a backup, but rinse them well to balance sweetness.
Red Onion: This provides a mild bite to the salsa. Yellow onion is a good substitute for a different flavor, but you’ll need to use less since it’s stronger. Green onions also work nicely!
Jalapeño: Including jalapeño gives a spicy kick. If you prefer mild salsa, leave it out, or use a pinch of cayenne pepper instead for a more controlled spice level.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, consider using fresh parsley or mint for an interesting twist.
How Can I Grill the Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some simple tips for juicy results:
- Always preheat the grill to get that nice sear.
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking. This keeps the inside from drying out while the outside cooks.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too soon. Cook each side until you see nice grill marks and it releases easily.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute—this makes every bite tender and juicy!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 tbsp olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh peach salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt, to taste
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for cooking, making a total of about 30 minutes. Quick and easy, perfect for a busy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to get a nice sear on the chicken and peaches.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the peach halves with half of the olive oil. Place them cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes, until nice grill marks appear and they soften a bit. Once done, remove and set aside.
3. Season the Chicken:
While the peaches are grilling, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and the remaining olive oil to help them stay moist during cooking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, checking until they’re fully cooked through and have nice grill marks. Once they reach 165°F (75°C), remove from heat.
5. Prepare the Green Beans:
If you’re grilling, toss the green beans with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill or pan-sear them for about 5-7 minutes, until tender and charred.
6. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a bowl, mix together the diced peaches, red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. This fresh salsa will be the perfect topping for your chicken!
7. Assemble Your Plate:
Top each grilled chicken breast with a generous scoop of peach salsa. Serve alongside the grilled peach halves and green beans for a beautifully colorful plate!
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Dig in and enjoy this lovely dish that combines the sweetness of peaches with savory grilled chicken and fresh veggies. It’s a meal that brightens any day!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for better browning!
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines can be a great alternative. You can also use canned peaches in juice; just be sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess syrup before chopping.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove. You can slightly moisten the chicken with a little broth or water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make the Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach salsa up to 2 days ahead of time. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Mix in the cilantro right before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant!
