This Easy Peach Chicken is a treat! Juicy chicken pairs perfectly with sweet peaches and a rich balsamic glaze. It’s a colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes!
I love how this meal brings summer vibes right to my plate! It’s quick to whip up, and trust me, you’ll want to make it again for friends and family. Everyone will be impressed! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are super convenient. If you’re looking for a different option, try using thighs for extra moisture. They may need a longer cooking time.
Fresh Peaches: I love using fresh peaches for their sweetness. If they’re out of season, canned or frozen peaches can work in a pinch. Just make sure to drain and thaw them first!
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a tangy richness to the dish. If you’ve got red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, they can also work as good substitutes, but adjust the sweetness slightly.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either of these adds a nice touch of sweetness to balance the balsamic. If you’re vegan, opt for agave syrup instead!
How Do I Get the Chicken Golden Brown?
To achieve that mouth-watering golden brown color on your chicken, it’s all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A hot pan gives you a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can cause the chicken to steam rather than brown. Work in batches if needed.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning it. This helps in browning and prevents the chicken from steaming.
Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes without moving the chicken, allowing it to develop a good crust. Happy cooking!
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh peaches, sliced (about 2 peaches)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Fresh thyme or basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning is key to enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicke breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through (make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F/75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This will add a lovely depth of flavor to your dish!
4. Add the Peaches:
Next, add the sliced peaches to the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften. The sweetness of the peaches will begin to enhance the dish.
5. Make the Glaze:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey (or maple syrup), stirring everything to combine. If you’re using red pepper flakes for a little kick, toss those in too! Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens into a delicious glaze.
6. Combine Chicken and Glaze:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the glaze and peaches over the top, ensuring the chicken is nicely coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh thyme or basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze!
Bon appétit! 🍑🍗
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet. This helps avoid extra moisture in the sauce, keeping it thick and flavorful.
Can I Prepare This Meal in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken with salt and pepper, and prepare the glaze ahead of time. Just cook everything on the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Peach Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the skillet over low heat or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through without overcooking.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, quinoa, or a bed of greens. Roasted vegetables or a light salad also make great accompaniments!
