This Healthy Peach Chicken Picante is a vibrant dish that brings together sweet peaches and tender chicken in a lightly spiced sauce. It’s a tasty way to enjoy a nutritious meal!
Trust me, the juicy peaches make this dish feel like summer on a plate. I like to serve it with rice or salad for the perfect weeknight dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great here for a lean option. If you’re looking for variety, you could use thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast as a substitute.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add so much sweetness, but if they’re out of season, frozen peaches work just as well. You can also swap in mangoes for a tropical twist!
Olive Oil: This recipe calls for olive oil, but feel free to use avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer. They all have a high smoke point and great flavor.
Tomato Sauce: A no-salt-added tomato sauce keeps it healthy. If you have fresh tomatoes, you can blend those instead! It gives a fresher taste and helps with using what you have on hand.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika or even chili powder can work. Adjust crushed red pepper to your heat preference.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but keeping it juicy is all about timing and temperature. Here are some tips:
- Season the chicken breasts well before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning. A golden brown crust is ideal for flavor!
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices in!
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly juicy chicken in this delicious dish!
Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20-25 minutes for total prep and cooking. This includes around 10 minutes for preparation, followed by 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor as it cooks.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it softens. This creates a flavorful base for your sauce.
4. Add Garlic and Peaches:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, stir in the diced peaches, tomato sauce, chicken broth, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and honey if you’re using it. Mix everything well.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly and the peaches become soft and juicy.
6. Combine and Heat:
Now, return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of the delicious sauce and peaches over the top. Cover the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and to reheat the chicken.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once everything is well combined, garnish your dish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it warm with your choice of whole grains like rice or with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Enjoy this sweet and spicy, healthy take on chicken picante!
FAQ for Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen peaches! Just thaw them beforehand to prevent extra moisture in the dish, and you’ll still enjoy that sweet flavor in your chicken picante.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken if I Want a Vegetarian Option?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using chickpeas or firm tofu instead of chicken. Prepare them in the same way, ensuring they’re well-seasoned for maximum flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. This dish doesn’t lose its flavor with reheating!
What Side Dishes Go Well With This Recipe?
This dish pairs wonderfully with whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, but you can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a light, balanced meal.
