This Easy Thai Peach Chicken is a tasty mix of juicy chicken and sweet peach flavors. With a touch of soy sauce and ginger, it’s a quick dish that really packs a punch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but you can easily swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add a lovely sweetness, but if they’re out of season, canned peaches work well too. Just make sure they’re in juice or water, not syrup, for a healthier choice!
Red Bell Pepper: While I love the sweetness of red bell peppers, you can use green or yellow ones as an alternative. Each brings a different flavor that complements the dish.
Sauces: Soy sauce and fish sauce give the dish its distinct umami flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Honey is my go-to for sweetness, but if you want a true vegan dish, use maple syrup or agave instead.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken correctly is key to this dish. Start by using medium-high heat to brown the chicken. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut chicken into equal-sized chunks for even cooking.
- Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken to avoid steaming.
- Cook the chicken undisturbed for a few minutes before stirring to get a nice sear.
You’ll know it’s done when the inside is no longer pink and the juices run clear. Enjoy juicy chicken every time!
How Can You Get the Perfect Peach Flavor in Your Dish?
Peaches add a delightful sweetness to your Thai Peach Chicken. To enhance their flavor:
- If using fresh peaches, slice them just before adding to maintain their firmness.
- Let the peaches warm in the pan with the chicken for just a few minutes, not too long to avoid mush.
This ensures that they stay juicy and flavorful, perfectly balancing the savory sauce!
Easy Thai Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
- 2 fresh peaches, sliced (or 1 cup canned peach slices, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes or 1 small fresh red chili, thinly sliced (adjust to taste)
For Toppings:
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Optional: cooked jasmine rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and approximately 15 minutes of cooking time. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, flavorful meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Pan:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken chunks to the hot pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Flavor the Base:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (or fresh chili). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the sliced red bell pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until it softens slightly while still maintaining some crunch.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the soy sauce, fish sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and lime juice. Stir everything together and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer. This will help develop deeper flavors.
6. Combine Chicken and Peaches:
Return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the peach slices. Gently toss everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes. This is when the peaches warm through and blend their sweetness with the savory sauce.
7. Finishing Touches:
Once everything is well-mixed, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro on top for added crunch and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Thai Peach Chicken immediately, ideally over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy the sweet-savory goodness!
Yummy and vibrant, this dish is sure to please your taste buds!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely first. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, pat it dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you’re looking for a fish sauce alternative, try using soy sauce mixed with a little bit of lime juice for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, coconut aminos can also work well for a soy-free option.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Easy Thai Peach Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of water or chicken broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy more heat, you can add extra chili flakes or minced fresh chili to your taste. For a greater kick, consider incorporating sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
