This Easy Peach Chicken combines juicy chicken with sweet peaches and a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a simple dish that looks fancy without needing restaurant skills!
Honestly, the combination of sweet and savory in this dish is a total winner. I love serving it with rice, and my family always asks for seconds. Who knew dinner could be this easy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, but thighs would also work well. They have more flavor and stay juicy, so if they’re available, consider using them!
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches add sweetness and a lovely texture. If they’re out of season, you can substitute with canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or even nectarines for a similar taste.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is crucial for the tangy glaze. If you don’t have balsamic, you could use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but the flavor will be different. Adding a touch of sweetener like honey can help mimic the balsamic flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: I like using cherry tomatoes for their sweetness, but you can use regular tomatoes diced into smaller pieces. Just make sure they’re ripe for better flavor!
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Perfectly?
Cooking chicken so that it’s juicy and not dry can be tricky. Here are some tips:
- Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it get that nice golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed. That way, it sears instead of steams.
- Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s both safe to eat and juicy.
By following these techniques, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time, making your Easy Peach Chicken a dish to remember!
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a calm weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook nicely and get a golden color. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper for flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add Peaches and Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the sliced peaches and halved cherry tomatoes. Let them cook together for about 3 minutes. You’ll want the peaches to soften a bit but not completely break down, keeping their lovely texture.
5. Create the Glaze:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and chicken broth (or water). Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pan, releasing any flavorful browned bits. If you like your glaze a little sweeter, this is the time to stir in the honey or brown sugar.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the peach and tomato mixture over the top. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes so that the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the skillet off the heat. Garnish your dish with freshly sliced basil leaves for a lovely touch. Serve warm, ideally with rice, pasta, or any side of your choice that will soak up that delicious balsamic peach glaze.
Enjoy your flavorful, sweet-savory Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight, but if you’re short on time, you can submerge the chicken in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker thaw. Just pat it dry before seasoning!
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches are not in season, canned peaches in juice (not syrup) work well as a substitute. Nectarines are another great option for a similar flavor. You could even use apricots for a different twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the simmering step in advance. Just store the peach tomato mixture separately and reheat before serving. The chicken can also be cooked in advance and then added to the pan before serving to warm it through.
