This Easy Peach Chicken features juicy chicken breasts cooked with sweet peaches and a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s a delightful mix of flavors that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
Plus, the vibrant colors make your plate look amazing! I love serving it with rice or a salad for a complete meal. You might even want to make extra for those pesky leftovers! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is great for this dish! If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra juiciness or even swap it with turkey. Just adjust cooking times, as they’re thicker.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches are best, but frozen slices work just fine too! If you can’t find peaches, try nectarines or even apricots for a different twist.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the dish its tangy flavor. If you’re out, red wine or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes. Just remember they will change the taste a bit.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor and color. If you don’t have them, feel free to use diced regular tomatoes or skip them altogether. They’ll be missed, but still delicious!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can seem tricky, but here’s how to make it juicy and flavorful. The first key is seasoning well before cooking. Don’t hold back on salt and pepper!
- Heat your skillet properly before adding chicken. This helps to seal in juices. Use medium-high heat for a nice sear.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides before taking it off the heat. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety!
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
With these tips and the right ingredients, your peach chicken will be a hit!
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 ripe peaches, sliced (fresh or frozen/thawed)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Quick and delicious, perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. This will add great flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced red onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an extra 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add Peaches and Tomatoes:
Next, toss in the sliced peaches and halved cherry tomatoes. Stir gently and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the peaches start to soften slightly.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, followed by the honey if you’re using it, and chicken broth. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This will help thicken it up and combine the flavors.
6. Combine and Simmer:
Now, return the chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the peach and tomato mixture. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Let it all simmer together for another 2 minutes so the chicken warms through and absorbs those yummy flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your sweet and tangy dinner! It’s colorful, quick to make, and absolutely delicious!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you use frozen peaches, just make sure they are thawed before slicing. This will help them cook evenly in the recipe without adding excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as alternatives. Keep in mind that these may alter the flavor slightly, but they will still provide a nice tanginess!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep it juicy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just be cautious not to overcook the chicken again during reheating!
