This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty way to enjoy chicken! The juicy peaches paired with zesty salsa make every bite burst with flavor. It’s fresh and perfect for warm days!
Honestly, who knew peaches and chicken were such a great pair? I love serving it with rice or tortillas, and my family always asks for seconds. Quick, easy, and delicious—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a lean meal. If you need a shortcut, you can use rotisserie chicken instead. Just warm it up and top with salsa!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches add sweetness and texture. If peaches are out of season, try nectarines or canned peaches in juice (just drain them well) for a similar taste.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. If you prefer, swap it for yellow or orange bell peppers, or even chopped tomatoes for a different flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings zest to the salsa. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative, or just skip it altogether!
Jalapeño: Use this for a spicy kick. If you want less heat, omit the seeds or use a milder pepper like a banana pepper instead.
How Do You Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there are some easy steps to ensure it stays juicy. Here’s what to do:
- Make sure your grill is preheated. A hot grill helps seal in the juices.
- Brush chicken with oil and season well—it enhances flavor and prevents sticking.
- Cook on medium-high for about 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid flipping too often; let it cook thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer to check for the safe internal temperature.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting, this allows the juices to redistribute.
With these tips, you’ll be left with perfectly grilled chicken every time!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced (plus 1 peach halved for grilling)
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus extra for grilling)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Green beans or another side vegetable (optional, for serving)
Estimated Time:
This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making it a perfect quick dinner option! Plan for about 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to mix all ingredients together. Set the salsa aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Lightly brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. This will flavor the chicken and also help it not stick to the grill.
3. Grill the Peach Halves:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the halved peaches cut-side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-5 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks and the peaches soften slightly. Once done, remove the peaches from the grill and set them aside.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place the grilled chicken on a plate and generously spoon the peach salsa over the top. Add the grilled peach halves on the side and serve with steamed green beans or your favorite vegetable side for a delicious, light meal!
Enjoy the fresh sweetness of peaches with the savory, smoky flavor of grilled chicken in this easy and healthy dish!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. Frozen peaches may be softer than fresh, so they might not hold their shape as well when grilled, but they will still taste great in the salsa!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Breasts?
If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even shrimp for a quick cook variant. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re fully cooked!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover peach salsa chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. The salsa may get a little watery, so stir it well before serving!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The salsa can be prepared a few hours in advance—just store it in the fridge to keep it fresh. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance all the flavors!
