Must-Try Spicy Peach Chicken Recipe — Sweet, Fiery & Simple

Why Make This Recipe

Spicy Peach Chicken is a delightful mix of sweet and fiery flavors. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their meal. The juicy peaches combined with the heat from jalapeño and red pepper flakes make it an exciting dinner option. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for a weeknight meal or impressing guests at a dinner party.

How to Make Spicy Peach Chicken

Making Spicy Peach Chicken is easy and quick. You’ll start by preparing the glaze, then marinating the chicken, and finally cooking it to perfection. This recipe gives you a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 yellow peaches — pitted and thinly sliced
• ½ cup (160 g) peach preserves
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium jalapeño, thinly sliced

Directions

1. Make the glaze: In a bowl, mix the sliced peaches, peach preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or dish and pour half of the glaze over it. Make sure the chicken is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Add jalapeño: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the sliced jalapeño to the skillet. This will add more flavor and spice to the dish.
5. Finish with glaze: Pour the remaining glaze over the cooked chicken and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve Spicy Peach Chicken

Serve the Spicy Peach Chicken hot, garnished with additional sliced peaches or jalapeños if desired. Pair it with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad to balance the flavors. This dish can also be enjoyed in tacos or on a bed of greens.

How to Store Spicy Peach Chicken

Leftover Spicy Peach Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for the best results.

Tips to Make Spicy Peach Chicken

• For an extra layer of flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-frying.
• You can substitute the yellow peaches with nectarines if they are in season.
• Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño and red pepper flakes according to your preference.

Variation

For a different twist, try adding other fruits like mango or pineapple to the glaze. This will give a tropical flair to your dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so check the temperature early.

2. Is there a substitute for peach preserves?
You can use apricot preserves or any other sweet fruit preserves if you don’t have peach.

3. How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on how much jalapeño and red pepper flakes you use. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce those ingredients.