Pin it
This jalapeno peach chicken combines the sweet juiciness of summer peaches with a hint of spicy jalapeno for a dish that perfectly balances flavor dimensions. The glossy glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
I first made this recipe when I had an abundance of peaches from the farmers' market and was looking for something beyond desserts to use them in. My husband declared it an instant favorite, and now it's in our regular summer rotation when peaches are at their peak.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicier and more flavorful than breasts, but you can substitute if preferred
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth that complements the sweet peaches perfectly
- Garlic powder: Provides savory notes without overpowering the delicate peach flavor
- Kosher salt: The larger grains help create a perfect crust on the chicken
- Black pepper: Freshly ground provides the best flavor
- Ripe peaches: Look for fragrant fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure
- Peach preserves: Intensifies the peach flavor and creates a sticky glaze
- Apple cider vinegar: Balances sweetness with bright acidity
- Jalapeno pepper: Adds a pleasant heat that cuts through the sweetness
- Olive oil: Helps bind the glaze and provides richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper in a small bowl, then sprinkle generously over both sides of the chicken. Press the seasonings in with your fingers to adhere them to the meat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- If pan-frying, heat a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking. Add a tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until deeply golden. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat around 400°F. Oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place chicken on the grill and cook with the lid closed for 5-7 minutes per side until grill marks appear and the chicken is cooked through.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- While the chicken cooks, combine the sliced peaches, peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, minced jalapeno and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Using the back of a fork, mash about half of the peach slices to release their juices while leaving some chunks for texture. Let the mixture bubble gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly to a spoonable consistency.
- Finish the Dish:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a clean plate. Pour the warm peach glaze into the still-hot skillet (if using). The residual heat and chicken bits will infuse the sauce with extra flavor. Return the chicken to the pan, spooning the glaze over each piece. Let everything mingle together for 1-2 minutes until the chicken is coated and glistening.
Pin it
The moment I serve this dish, everyone always asks about the gorgeous color. The secret is letting the chicken develop a deep golden crust before adding the glaze. My daughter who normally dislikes "mixed" foods tried this reluctantly and now requests it regularly, calling it "peachy chicken" which has become our family's nickname for the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This jalapeno peach chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that won't compete with its flavor profile. Fluffy white rice or coconut rice makes an excellent base to soak up the extra glaze. For a lighter option, serve with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, or alongside grilled asparagus. The sweet-spicy flavor also works wonderfully with creamy polenta or roasted sweet potatoes.
Make-Ahead and Storage
You can prepare components of this dish ahead of time to streamline dinner preparation. Season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep refrigerated. The peach glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat the glaze before using. Leftover chicken and glaze will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results when reheating, warm gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Pin it
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted based on what you have available. No fresh peaches? Substitute thawed frozen peaches or even canned peaches in a pinch, though you may want to reduce the preserves slightly to account for the added sweetness. Apricots make a wonderful alternative to peaches with a similar sweet-tart profile. For the preserves, apricot jam, orange marmalade, or even fig jam can be substituted. If jalapenos are unavailable, try serrano peppers for more heat or poblanos for a milder option. For a completely different but equally delicious variation, substitute chicken with pork tenderloin, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy is the jalapeno glaze?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding or reducing the amount of minced jalapeno or including the seeds for more heat.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well. Just be mindful of cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- → What can I pair with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables, balancing the sweet and spicy flavors.
- → Can I substitute peaches with other fruits?
Yes, apricots or nectarines can be used as substitutes for peaches if needed, providing a similar sweetness.
- → Can I prepare the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before using.