This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a fun and flavorful dish! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with sweet peach salsa, giving it a lovely twist that’s perfect for summer dinners.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a sweet and tangy combo? I like to serve it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights! 🍗🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook quickly on the grill. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option or swap in turkey breast for a leaner meal.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (drained) or mango, which has a similar texture and taste.
Red Onion: This adds a nice crunch and sharp flavor. If red onions are too strong for you, try green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Jalapeño: This gives a nice kick. If you’re looking for less heat, omit it or substitute with a small amount of bell pepper, which is sweet and crunchy without the spice.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the salsa, but if you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can work as substitutes.
How Do You Get the Chicken Grilled Just Right?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can help you nail it. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high for even cooking. Here’s how to grill chicken perfectly:
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Use a little olive oil to keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, but use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should hit 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier result.
Following these steps will help ensure you get beautifully grilled chicken every time!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (plus 1 peach halved for grilling)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- Grilled asparagus or your choice of vegetable, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and roughly 15-20 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 30-35 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over them, making sure they are evenly coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks.
4. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, take the halved peaches and place them on the grill as well. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Make the Peach Salsa:
While the chicken and peaches are cooking, prepare the peach salsa. In a medium bowl, mix together the diced peaches, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño (if using), cilantro, lime juice, and honey. Stir gently to combine everything. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or extra lime juice if you like.
6. Add Grilled Peaches to Salsa:
Once the grilled peaches are ready, dice the halves and add them into the salsa mixture for an extra burst of flavor!
7. Serve It Up:
Once the chicken is grilled and cooked through, top each piece with a generous portion of the peach salsa. Serve with grilled asparagus or your favorite vegetables for a delightful and colorful meal.
This dish beautifully balances the smoky flavor of the grilled chicken with the fresh, sweet, and slightly spicy peach salsa. Enjoy your delicious creation!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before grilling. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly, as thawed chicken may take a bit longer to cook evenly.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches (just drain them well) or even diced mango. Both alternatives will provide a similar sweet flavor to the salsa.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on the stove over low heat while adding a splash of water to keep it moist, and serve with the salsa on the side.
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the peach salsa a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and if needed, adjust the lime juice and seasoning to freshen it up!
