Easy Peach Salsa Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Peaches: Use perfectly ripe peaches for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, consider using canned peaches packed in juice. Fresh mango can be a great substitute in the salsa, adding a different sweetness.

Red Onion: Red onion brings a nice crunch and sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use green onions or shallots instead.

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a mild alternative. Just know it won’t taste the same, but still adds freshness!

Jalapeño: Adjust the heat according to your taste! If you like it milder, leave out the seeds or switch to a bell pepper for a sweet crunch without the heat.

Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken thighs also work well if you prefer dark meat. They tend to be juicier and add rich flavor to the dish.

How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?

Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll have delicious results! Start with even-sized chicken breasts for uniform cooking. Marinate or season well to lock in flavor.

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Pat the chicken dry to ensure a good sear. Rub it with olive oil and a mix of spices.
• Place chicken on the grill and don’t move it around too much. Let it cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes per side.
• Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
• Let it rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This keeps the juices inside.

With these easy tips, your chicken will turn out flavorful and juicy every time!

Easy Peach Salsa Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Peach Salsa:

• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and finely diced (plus 1 peach halved for grilling)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

Optional Side:

• Grilled green beans

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for cooking, giving you a total time of about 25 minutes from start to finish! It’s perfect for a quick and delicious summer dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Peach Salsa:

In a medium bowl, combine your finely diced peaches, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño (if you like some heat). Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and set it aside for the flavors to blend while you work on the chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it in, making sure each piece is coated. Then, take the spice mixture and evenly coat both sides of the chicken breasts with it.

3. Grill the Chicken:

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C, and have lovely grill marks).

4. Grill the Peaches:

During the last 5 minutes of cooking the chicken, add the halved peach cut side down onto the grill. This will give them a delicious char flavor!

5. Serve It Up:

Once the chicken is cooked and peaches are grilled, take them off the grill and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. To serve, plate the grilled chicken and top it generously with your fresh peach salsa. Add the grilled peach halves on the side and feel free to accompany it with grilled green beans or your choice of side dishes.

6. Enjoy!

Dig in and enjoy this sweet, smoky, and refreshing Easy Peach Salsa Chicken—it’s a perfect dish for summer gatherings or a cozy dinner at home!

FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken

Can I Use Frozen Peaches for the Salsa?

Yes, you can use frozen peaches, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing. Fresh peaches will give a better texture and flavor, but thawed frozen peaches work in a pinch!

Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?

Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier alternative, or swap in pork or firm tofu for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, ensuring everything is cooked through.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, keep the salsa separate from the chicken. Reheat on the stove to ensure even warming.

Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?

Yes! The peach salsa can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge in an airtight container, and give it a gentle stir before serving to revive the flavors!