This Easy Peach Salsa Chicken is a tasty and bright meal perfect for a quick dinner. Juicy chicken is topped with sweet and tangy peach salsa, making every bite exciting!
I love that it takes just a few ingredients and hardly any time to prepare. Serve it with rice or veggies for a colorful plate—it feels like summer on your table! 🍑🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things easy and quick. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option, as they tend to stay moist when cooked. Turkey cutlets are another option if you prefer leaner meat.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches bring brightness to the dish. If peaches aren’t available, mango or nectarines can be great substitutes. Just make sure they’re ripe for that sweet touch!
Red Bell Pepper: This adds crunch and a hint of sweetness. Feel free to swap it with any color bell pepper or even a diced cucumber for freshness if you prefer.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is fantastic in this salsa, but if you’re not a fan, parsley works too. A bit of mint can also add a refreshing twist.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky if you aim for juicy, tender results. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with even-sized chicken breasts for uniform cooking. If they are thick, consider butterflying or pounding them to an even thickness.
- Marinate or season your chicken beforehand. A simple mix of olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper helps keep it moist.
- Use medium-high heat for grilling—too hot can lead to burning, while too low won’t sear the meat. Aim for a nice golden color, about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it juicy when you slice into it!
With these tips, you’ll have perfect grilled chicken every time, ready to pair with that zesty peach salsa!
Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for grill
For the Peach Salsa:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced (plus 1 peach halved and grilled for serving, optional)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for spice)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to grill, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious, fresh meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly spray or brush it with oil to help prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the grill is heating up, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and make your chicken delicious!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until you see nice grill marks and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes—this helps keep it juicy.
4. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if you’re using it), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Gently stir everything together, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This salsa is fresh and bursting with flavor!
5. Optional Grilled Peach:
If you’d like, you can grill the halved peach. Just place it cut-side down on the grill for about 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly charred. This adds an extra depth of flavor!
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, place the grilled chicken on a plate and top it with a generous scoop of the peach salsa. Add the grilled peach half on the side for a beautiful presentation. Pair it with grilled asparagus or your favorite side dish to complete the meal. Enjoy!
You’re all set to enjoy a fresh and tasty dinner with this Easy Peach Salsa Chicken recipe!
FAQ for Easy Peach Salsa Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for the Salsa?
While fresh peaches are best for texture and flavor, you can use frozen peaches if needed! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before dicing and adding to your salsa.
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with pork chops, turkey cutlets, or even grilled shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose, ensuring it’s fully cooked before serving.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Peach Salsa?
Leftover peach salsa can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It may become slightly watery over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again. Enjoy it with tortilla chips or on salads!
Can I Make the Salsa Ahead of Time?
Yes, definitely! You can prepare the peach salsa up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the more the flavors blend!
