This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a winner for dinner! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with tasty peach salsa, making every bite refreshing and full of flavor.
To be honest, the sweet and tangy salsa is what I love the most. It packs a punch without any fuss. I often serve it with rice for a quick and delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and perfect for grilling. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are the star of the salsa. If they’re out of season, use canned peaches (drained) or swap with mango for a similar sweetness.
Jalapeño: This adds a nice kick, but if you want a milder salsa, leave it out or use bell pepper. For extra heat, keep the seeds in or switch to a hotter pepper.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a vibrant flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even mint can work as a tasty substitute.
How Do I Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but don’t worry! Here are some tips for juicy results:
- Start with chicken at room temperature for even cooking.
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes if you have time. This adds flavor and moisture.
- Use medium-high heat for grilling. Too hot can burn the outside before the inside is cooked.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer if you can!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices.
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! This dish is all about fresh flavors and quick prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for grilling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large ripe peach, halved and pitted (for grilling)
For the Peach Salsa:
- 1 ripe peach, finely diced
- 1 small tomato, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
For the Green Beans Side:
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying option for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Grill Peach Halves:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper. Do the same for the halved peaches. When the grill is hot, place the chicken on it along with the peaches cut side down. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Grill the peaches for about 3-4 minutes until they have nice char marks.
2. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
While your chicken and peaches are grilling, make the fresh peach salsa. In a bowl, combine the finely diced peach, tomato, red onion, jalapeño (if you’re using it), and chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the lime juice and sprinkle with a little salt. Give it a good stir, and put it in the fridge to chill while you finish cooking.
3. Prepare the Green Beans:
Next, toss the fresh green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the green beans for about 5-7 minutes or until they are tender-crisp and slightly blistered. This gives them a delicious flavor and texture!
4. Assemble and Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a minute or two. Slice the grilled peach halves for garnish if you like. On each plate, place a grilled chicken breast, top it generously with the peach salsa, and add the grilled peach halves and sautéed green beans on the side. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing and tasty meal!
This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is perfect for a quick dinner, bringing together the sweetness of peaches with savory chicken and crisp green beans. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely before grilling. The best way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning and grilling!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the salsa and green beans to maintain their texture. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or oil to keep it moist.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches in the Salsa?
If peaches aren’t in season, you can substitute them with ripe mango, nectarines, or even canned peaches (drained). Each option brings a different sweetness and flavor profile, so feel free to customize the salsa to your liking!
Can I Prepare the Salsa in Advance?
Absolutely! You can make the peach salsa up to a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, which helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Give it a gentle stir before serving for the best texture!
