This Easy Peach Chicken is a tasty mix of sweet peaches and tender chicken, all drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s simple to make and looks lovely on the plate!
Whenever I make this, I feel like a kitchen superstar. Plus, the sweet and savory combo is always a hit at dinner time! Who doesn’t love a colorful dish like this? 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use thighs for a juicier cut or even swap in turkey breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are delightful, but if they’re out of season, canned peaches work too; just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture. You could also substitute with nectarines for a similar flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds that sweet tang, yet if you’re in a pinch, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used. Just add a little extra honey to balance the acidity.
Fresh Basil: While basil adds a fresh note, you can replace it with parsley or even a sprinkle of Italian seasoning if you don’t have fresh herbs on hand.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky, but here’s how to do it right! Start by ensuring your skillet is hot enough so the chicken sizzles when it hits the pan. Here are a few tips:
- Season well: Salt and pepper not only season but also help to create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd: If your skillet isn’t large enough, cook the chicken in batches to avoid steaming.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time!
How to Make Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup onions, thinly sliced
- 2-3 fresh peaches, sliced (or canned peaches, drained)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will help them brown nicely! Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and no longer pink in the middle. Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Using the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Add Peaches and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the sliced peaches and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the fruit starts to soften and release their juices.
5. Create the Balsamic Glaze:
Pour the balsamic vinegar and honey (or brown sugar) into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the glaze can reduce and thicken slightly, bringing all those fantastic flavors together.
6. Combine Chicken with Glaze:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the peach and balsamic mixture over the top. Allow everything to simmer together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors nicely.
7. Add Fresh Basil:
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly sliced basil over the chicken for a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the peach chicken hot, ensuring to drizzle some extra glaze over the top. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad. Enjoy the delightful mixture of juicy peaches and tangy balsamic glaze that perfectly complement the tender chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute the Chicken Breasts with Something Else?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option. If you want to make it a vegetarian dish, try using firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring it’s heated through. Adding a splash of water or extra balsamic vinegar can help refresh the dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Peaches?
If fresh peaches are not available, you can use canned peaches (just make sure to drain them) or substitute with nectarines. In the off-season, frozen peaches work too—just thaw and drain before using.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and fruit mixture up to a day in advance. Store everything in the refrigerator, then simply heat it up in a skillet when you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight!
