This grilled chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! Topped with a sweet and spicy peach chipotle sauce, it’s the perfect dish for summer BBQs or any night you want something special.
The combination of sweet peaches and a hint of heat really makes this sauce shine. I love serving it with a side of rice to soak up all that tasty goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is a great choice for grilling. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for more juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take longer to cook through.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches give the best flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, you can use canned peaches in juice or syrup. Make sure to drain them well before using. Pineapple can also work for a tropical twist!
Chipotle Pepper: The chipotle adds a nice smoky heat. If you can’t find them, try using a teaspoon of smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne for a similar flavor profile. For less spice, just reduce the amount used.
Honey or Maple Syrup: This sweetness balances the heat from the chipotle. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a great option. Brown sugar can also work; just be careful not to add too much as it can caramelize quickly.
How Do I Grill Chicken So It Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy grilled chicken is to avoid overcooking it. Here are some tips:
- First, make sure your grill is preheated. This helps sear the outside quickly, locking moisture inside.
- Use a meat thermometer! Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat without drying it out.
- Let chicken rest after grilling for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 large ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for cooking the sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling so that it’s juicy and perfect when you serve it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting the chicken nicely seared and cooked through.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir so everything is mixed well.
3. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken and rub the spice mix evenly on each piece. This helps to lock in flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You want to grill them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Make the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, you can make the sauce. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s nice and fragrant. Make sure not to burn it!
6. Combine Ingredients for the Sauce:
Add the diced peaches, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or lime juice), and ginger if you’re using it. Stir everything together until well combined.
7. Cook Down the Sauce:
Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the peaches to soften and the sauce to become syrupy. Taste the sauce and add salt as needed.
8. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds a nice freshness to the sauce!
9. Serve the Chicken:
Now it’s time to eat! Spoon the sweet peach chipotle sauce generously over the grilled chicken breasts. Don’t be shy with the sauce—it’s the star of the dish!
10. Enjoy Your Meal:
Garnish with extra cilantro if you’d like. Serve your grilled chicken with a side of steamed white rice or your favorite vegetables to balance out the meal. Enjoy the sweet, smoky flavors!
Dig in and savor your juicy grilled chicken topped with that irresistible peach chipotle sauce!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before grilling. To thaw chicken safely, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach chipotle sauce up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and then reheat it gently on the stove over low heat before serving.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Peaches?
No worries! If fresh peaches aren’t available, canned peaches can be used instead. Just make sure to drain and rinse them. Alternatively, you can use diced mango or pineapple for a different twist on the sauce!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken and peach chipotle sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on a skillet, and gently warm the sauce on the stovetop for the best results.
