This sweet and tangy peach chicken with a rich balsamic glaze is a great way to impress your family! Juicy chicken paired with juicy peaches makes for a perfect, colorful dish.
I love how quick it is to whip up, making dinner feel fancy with minimal effort. Serve it with rice or salad, and watch everyone go back for seconds! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a juicy texture. If you want an alternative, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness, but if they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches or even apricots. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as canned ones are softer.
Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic adds a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes, but you might want to add a bit more honey to balance acidity.
Cherry Tomatoes: They add freshness and sweetness. If you can’t find them, any type of tomato will do! Just chop them up into smaller pieces for quicker cooking.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken breasts perfectly is key to keep them juicy. First, don’t overcrowd the pan. If you have too many pieces, cook them in batches. Here’s how:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot, then add olive oil.
- When you add the chicken, let it sear without moving it for the first few minutes. This creates a nice golden crust.
- Cook until it’s browned on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Rest the chicken for a few minutes off the heat before slicing – this helps it retain juices.
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total—about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C). After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onions are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. You want to be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add Peaches and Tomatoes:
Now, toss in the sliced peaches and the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You just want the peaches to start softening and release some of their juices.
5. Create the Glaze:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, honey, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for a slightly thick glaze that will coat the chicken beautifully!
6. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of that delicious peach and balsamic mixture over the top. Allow it to cook together for another 2 minutes. This helps the chicken soak in all those sweet and tangy flavors.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your dish with freshly sliced basil. Serve it warm over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside your favorite vegetables.
Enjoy your vibrant and flavorful Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it fully before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water until thawed. Just be sure to pat it dry before cooking!
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
No worries! If ripe peaches aren’t available, you can use canned peaches. Just drain them well and add them to the skillet towards the end of the cooking process so they don’t turn mushy. Alternatively, fresh apricots can also work in this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This peach chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides! Serve it over rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the glaze. For a lighter option, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy meal.
