Jalapeno Peach Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a unique combination of flavors that you won’t find in your typical chicken dish. The sweetness from the peaches and peach preserves blends perfectly with the spicy jalapenos, creating a glaze that coats the chicken beautifully. It’s easy to make, quick to prepare, and can be adjusted to suit your preferred spice level. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Jalapeno Peach Chicken is sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 yellow peaches, pitted, sliced

½ cup (160 g) peach preserves

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon garlic, minced

½ teaspoon kosher salt

⅛ teaspoon black pepper

⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon chili powder

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Peach Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the peach preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix until fully incorporated and set aside.

Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken thighs.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes on one side. Flip the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for another 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Tent with foil to keep warm.

In the same skillet, raise the heat back to medium and add the thinly sliced jalapenos. Cook for 3 minutes. Then, add the sliced peaches and cook for another 3 minutes until the peaches have softened.

Pour the peach glaze over the peaches and jalapenos. Stir well to coat the fruit and peppers evenly with the glaze.

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the glaze over the top. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the chicken is heated through.

Serve the dish warm.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 16 minutes

Total time: 31 minutes

Variations

Less heat: If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds from the jalapenos or reduce the red pepper flakes in the glaze.

Extra heat: For those who love spicy food, leave the jalapeno seeds in or add more chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.

Herb garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley makes a wonderful garnish to add color and a fresh herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Jalapeno Peach Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken and glaze in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as breasts cook faster than thighs. Always check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F.

Can I make this dish in advance?

You can prepare the chicken and peach glaze ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and glaze separately in the refrigerator, and combine them when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Jalapeno Peach Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the spice.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you remove the seeds from the jalapenos, the dish will be milder. For a spicier version, leave the seeds in or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Can I use frozen peaches for the glaze?

While fresh peaches are ideal, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw them before adding them to the skillet.

Can I make the glaze thicker?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, allow it to simmer on the stove for a few minutes to reduce and thicken to your liking.

Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it?

Yes, you can grill the chicken thighs. Grill over medium heat and brush the peach glaze over the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the chicken and glaze to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

What other fruits can I use for the glaze?

In place of peaches, you could use nectarines, apricots, or even mangoes for a similar sweet and spicy flavor profile.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of peaches with the heat of jalapenos. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that brings something new to the table while still being simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this dish can be tailored to suit your taste, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy

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