Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy. Juicy chicken thighs are pan-seared and paired with a tangy peach glaze, fresh peaches, and fiery jalapeno slices. It’s a vibrant and unexpected combination that turns a simple meal into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this Jalapeno Peach Chicken brings together contrasting flavors—sweet, fruity peaches and spicy jalapenos—for a dish that’s both exciting and satisfying. The peach glaze is rich, tangy, and layered with subtle spice, while the chicken stays juicy and well-seasoned. This dish is perfect for weeknights when I want something quick yet bold, and it also impresses when served to guests. It pairs beautifully with rice, grains, or a crisp salad.

Ingredients

• 2 yellow peaches, pitted and sliced

• ½ cup peach preserves (160g)

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (for glaze)

• 1 teaspoon soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• ½ teaspoon minced garlic

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (for glaze)

• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (for chicken)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper (for chicken)

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for cooking)

• 1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Peach Glaze:
   In a medium bowl, combine the peach preserves, 1 tablespoon olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, ½ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and set aside.

2. Season the Chicken:
   Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon chili powder. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.

3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5 minutes on one side until golden. Flip the chicken, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Peppers and Peaches:
   Increase the heat to medium. Add the sliced jalapeno to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes. Add the peach slices and cook for another 3 minutes until the peaches begin to soften.

5. Combine and Finish:
   Pour the prepared peach glaze over the jalapenos and peaches in the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the glaze over each piece. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm everything through.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 16 minutes

• Total Time: 31 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Option: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying, and serve with the sautéed peaches and glaze on top.

• Extra Heat: Add more jalapeno slices or increase the red pepper flakes if I want it spicier.

• Stone Fruit Swap: Try this recipe with nectarines, apricots, or plums for a seasonal twist.

• Vegan Twist: Substitute the chicken with tofu or cauliflower steaks and use a plant-based butter alternative in the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, I use a skillet over low heat or microwave in short bursts, making sure not to overcook the chicken. Adding a splash of water or broth helps keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen peaches?

Yes, I can use canned or frozen peaches. If using canned, choose peaches in juice rather than syrup and drain them well. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. I reduce or omit the jalapeno and red pepper flakes for a milder version, while still enjoying the sweet and savory flavors.

Can I substitute chicken breasts for thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used instead. I just make sure not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

What sides go well with this dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with white or brown rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, I often make the glaze a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It helps develop the flavors and makes meal prep even quicker.

Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?

Yes, I can bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then top with the glaze and peaches in the last 5 minutes.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, I freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if I use a gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari), the recipe is gluten-free.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

I use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.

What can I use instead of Dijon mustard?

If I’m out of Dijon mustard, I use stone-ground mustard or a small amount of yellow mustard, though the flavor may change slightly.

Conclusion

Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a stunning dish that combines sweet, savory, and spicy in every bite. The juicy chicken, fresh peaches, and bold glaze make it a standout recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether I’m serving it for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests, it never fails to impress.

Print