This Easy Peach Chicken is a tasty dish featuring juicy chicken cooked with sweet peaches and a drizzling of tangy balsamic glaze. It’s quick and full of flavor!
Honestly, there’s something magical about chicken and peaches together. The glaze adds a nice zing, making every bite a little party in your mouth! I love serving it with rice for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs can be used; they tend to be juicier. You can also substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option!
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star here. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to use canned peaches in juice or even nectarines for a similar taste. Remember to adjust the cooking time for canned fruits since they’re already soft.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds a tangy sweetness that elevates this dish. If you don’t have it, try apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar with a touch of sugar as a substitute. Just remember to adjust the sweetness level to your taste!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Honey enhances the flavor, but maple syrup does the trick too—perfect for a vegan alternative! Adjust the amount depending on how sweet you like your glaze.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting the chicken just right is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful:
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper; don’t skip this!
- Heat your skillet adequately; the chicken should sizzle when it hits the pan. This helps create a nice golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy!
Following these tips will help you cook the chicken perfectly every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have it ready in roughly 30 minutes. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step adds great flavor to your chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and slightly translucent. This adds a sweet onion flavor to the dish!
4. Add Garlic and Fruits
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, stir in the sliced peaches and cherry tomatoes. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes, until the peaches start to soften and everything is heated through.
5. Make the Glaze
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup). Stir it all up and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly into a delicious glaze.
6. Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken breasts back to the pan, spooning some of the peach and balsamic mixture over the top. Let it heat through for another 2 minutes so the flavors mingle nicely.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch. Serve your Peach Chicken warm, drizzling extra balsamic glaze over the top as desired. Enjoy this beautiful and tasty meal!
Enjoy your delicious and colorful Peach Chicken with a tangy-sweet balsamic glaze!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way is to let it thaw overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quick thaw. Pat it dry before seasoning to achieve a nice sear in the pan!
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
No worries! If fresh peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches packed in juice or syrup. Just drain them well before adding to your dish. Alternatively, nectarines or apricots can also work as a delicious substitute!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and peach mixture ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
