This Jalapeño Peach Chicken dish perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors, making it a unique and delightful meal. The fresh peach sauce, combined with the kick of jalapeños, elevates the chicken to a gourmet level. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh or canned peach slices, chopped
• 1/4 cup peach preserves
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and browned. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped jalapeño peppers and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add chopped peach slices, peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and ground ginger to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and peaches soften.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through and coat the chicken with the sauce.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley.
9. Serve the Jalapeño Peach Chicken hot, accompanied by rice, couscous, or your favorite side dish.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 kcal
Tips:
• For a milder dish, reduce the number of jalapeños or remove all seeds.
• If fresh peaches are unavailable, canned peaches in light syrup or frozen peach slices can be used.
• Pair this dish with a light, fruity white wine such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio to complement the peach flavors.
Benefits:
• Nutritional Value: This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the peaches and jalapeños, providing a good dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet peaches and spicy jalapeños creates a dynamic flavor that keeps the palate interested.
• Versatility: This recipe is adaptable; you can adjust the spice level or try different side dishes to keep it fresh and exciting.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take longer to cook through.
Q: How can I make this dish less spicy?
A: To reduce the spiciness, use fewer jalapeños and ensure they are thoroughly seeded. You can also substitute with a milder pepper.
Q: What can I serve with Jalapeño Peach Chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad would also complement the flavors.
Q: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: Yes, the peach sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before adding the cooked chicken breasts.
Conclusion:
Jalapeño Peach Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the sweetness of peaches and the heat of jalapeños in a delicious harmony. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, it’s a fantastic option for both busy weeknights and more leisurely weekend meals. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides and savor the blend of sweet and spicy notes in every bite.