Description
Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a delightful fusion dish combining tender, oven-baked chicken breasts with a sweet and spicy peach salsa. The chicken is first seared to develop a flavorful crust, then baked to perfection with a vibrant topping of peaches, jalapeno, onions, garlic, and warm spices. This dish balances fruity sweetness and mild heat, making it an exciting, fresh option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Peach Salsa
- 1 cup fresh or frozen peaches, diced
- 1 medium jalapeno pepper, minced (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it reaches the proper temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the chicken.
- Make the peach salsa: In a medium bowl, combine diced peaches, minced jalapeno, chopped onion, garlic, honey, soy sauce, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then drizzle lightly with olive oil to coat evenly on both sides.
- Sear the chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, which helps lock in juices and develop flavor.
- Top with salsa: Spoon the prepared peach salsa evenly over the seared chicken breasts inside the skillet.
- Bake the chicken: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute for maximum moistness.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zesty kick.
Notes
- Removing the jalapeno seeds reduces the heat level; keep them in if you prefer spicier chicken.
- Frozen peaches can be used if fresh is not available; thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Ensure the skillet used is oven-safe to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish for baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness precisely.
