This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with sweet and tangy peach salsa. It’s colorful, refreshing, and perfect for both dinner and gatherings!
You just mix some fresh peaches, onions, and cilantro, and pour it over the chicken. I love how simple it is—no fuss, just flavor. Serve it with rice, and you’re all set for a fun meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are key for the salsa. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches that are drained and chopped. Apricots or mangoes can also work well as substitutes if you want a different twist.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture, or even go for grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Red Onion: Red onions add a nice sharpness to the salsa. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using green onions or shallots instead.
Jalapeño: This is optional if you like some heat. For a milder version, omit it or switch to a poblano pepper. If you want more spice, consider using serrano peppers instead.
How Do I Make the Perfect Peach Salsa?
Making peach salsa is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips:
- Choose ripe but firm peaches—they should give slightly when pressed but not be mushy.
- Mix all your salsa ingredients gently to keep the peach pieces intact. This helps maintain a nice texture.
- Let the salsa sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to meld. This really enhances the taste!
- If you want to prepare the salsa ahead, wait until just before serving to add finely chopped cilantro to keep it fresh.
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced (plus 1 peach halved for grilling)
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Chicken and Side:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed (for side)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes making the salsa while the grill heats up, then you’ll cook the chicken and green beans at the same time. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it is nice and hot before adding the chicken for those perfect grill marks!
2. Make the Peach Salsa:
In a bowl, combine the diced peaches, chopped red onion, jalapeño (if you’d like some heat), chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, honey, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients gently, then set the salsa aside to let the flavors meld together while you cook the chicken.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Lightly coat the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season them well with salt and black pepper. This adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy as it cooks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the middle and nicely charred. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
5. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until they are charred and slightly softened—a delicious addition to your dish!
6. Cook the Green Beans:
In a skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the trimmed green beans and sauté until they are tender and slightly blistered, which should take about 5 minutes. Season with a little salt to taste.
7. Serve Your Meal:
Once everything is cooked, place the grilled chicken on plates, top each piece with a generous spoonful of the peach salsa, and add the grilled peach halves on the side. Don’t forget to include the sautéed green beans for a complete meal!
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy this fresh and colorful summer meal that’s bursting with sweet and smoky flavors! It’s perfect for family dinners or BBQ gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for the Salsa?
While fresh peaches yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry, as excess moisture can make the salsa watery.
What Should I Do if the Chicken is Overcooked?
If your chicken ends up a bit dry, try slicing it and serving it with an extra spoonful of peach salsa on top. The salsa adds moisture and flavor, making it a delicious way to rescue your meal!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken and peach salsa should be eaten within 3 days for the best flavor. The salsa can actually taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love spice, consider adding more jalapeño to the salsa or using a spicier pepper like serrano. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken before grilling for an extra kick!
