This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty dish that combines juicy chicken with sweet peach salsa. It’s colorful, fresh, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
I love how simple this recipe is—just cook the chicken, top it with the peach salsa, and you’re done! It’s a fun way to make dinner bright and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra juiciness or even swap for tofu or tempeh if going meatless.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches bring sweetness. If they’re out of season, feel free to use canned peaches (just drain them), or try mangoes for a different twist!
Red Onion: This adds a lovely crunch and flavor. If you don’t have red onion, yellow or white onions work, but they’re a tad stronger in taste.
Jalapeño: This is optional, but it gives a nice kick! For milder heat, use banana peppers or omit it altogether. If you want more spice, try a serrano pepper!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative, though it has a different taste.
How Should I Grill the Chicken to Make It Juicy?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but follow these simple steps for perfect results. The key is getting the right temperature and not overcooking it.
- Make sure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the chicken. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side; this will ensure it’s cooked through without drying out. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Peach Salsa?
Preparing the peach salsa is a breeze! Just follow these handy tips:
- Make sure your peaches are ripe but still firm for easy dicing.
- Chop your veggies finely for better mixing and flavor distribution—this keeps each bite balanced.
- If you’re looking for a zestier salsa, feel free to squeeze in more lime juice or even some zest for extra citrus flavor.
- Let the salsa sit for a few minutes after mixing—this allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Enjoy this fresh and vibrant dish that’s not only delicious but also easy to make!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted (plus extra for salsa)
- 1 cup diced peaches (about 2 peaches)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salsa)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Side:
- 1 cup green beans or your choice of side vegetable
- Olive oil for roasting green beans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes, including prep and cooking time. You’ll spend a few minutes grilling the chicken and peaches, then whip up the salsa and roast some green beans—all in a fun and relaxed cooking session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures it’s nice and hot for grilling the chicken and peaches.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Brush the peach halves with a little olive oil and place them cut side down on the grill. Grill until tender and you see grill marks, about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove them from the grill and set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor while grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juicy (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
5. Make the Peach Salsa:
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time to prepare the peach salsa! In a mixing bowl, combine the diced peaches, chopped red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, honey, olive oil (1 tablespoon), cumin, and minced garlic. Mix everything well and season to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Roast the Green Beans:
Toss the green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they are slightly blistered and tender.
7. Serve It Up:
To serve, place the grilled chicken on a plate, spoon the fresh peach salsa generously over the top, add the grilled peach halves on the side, and enjoy with the roasted green beans.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Dig into this delicious dish that wonderfully balances sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
This recipe not only provides a vibrant flavor combination but also showcases the beautiful summer produce in an enticing way. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for the Salsa?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches! Just make sure to thaw them completely, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before dicing. This helps keep the salsa from becoming watery.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder salsa, simply omit the jalapeño altogether. For more heat, consider adding an extra jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper. Tasting as you go will allow you to achieve your perfect spice level!
Can I Prepare the Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the peach salsa up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chicken and Salsa?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It makes great additions to salads, wraps, or sandwiches. The salsa can also be refrigerated for about 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
