This easy grilled chicken has a juicy and smoky flavor, topped with a sweet peach chipotle sauce that adds a nice zing. It’s perfect for summer cookouts!
I love how the sweet and spicy sauce makes plain chicken feel like a special treat. Pair it with some fresh veggies for a colorful meal that’s also tasty! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they grill nicely and stay moist. If you want to switch it up, chicken thighs can be a great alternative as they tend to have a richer flavor.
Peaches: Fresh peaches are best for their flavor. If they aren’t in season, you can use frozen peaches, which work just as well once they’re thawed. Canned peaches are an option too, but be sure to use the ones in juice, not syrup, to keep it healthier.
Chipotle Pepper: For heat and smokiness, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are fantastic. If you want a milder option, you can substitute them with smoked paprika or even just regular paprika if you’re not a fan of spice.
Honey or Maple Syrup: To sweeten the sauce, honey or maple syrup adds a nice touch. Use agave syrup for a vegan alternative. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste preference!
How Do You Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Every Time?
Grilling chicken so it’s juicy can sometimes be tricky, but these tips will help you succeed:
- Brine the chicken in saltwater for 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps it moist.
- Preheat the grill well to ensure good searing. A hot grill means better flavor!
- Avoid flipping too often; let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C). Remove it from heat just before it reaches this temperature to allow for carryover cooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and delicious!
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 fresh peaches, peeled and diced (or 1 1/2 cups frozen peaches, thawed)
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle peppers can)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon cider vinegar or lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). A hot grill ensures a nice sear and flavorful chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, ensuring they’re well coated to help keep them moist while grilling.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through with beautiful grill marks. After cooking, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
4. Make the Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Peaches and Season:
Stir in the diced peaches, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, honey (or maple syrup), and cider vinegar (or lime juice). Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes until the peaches have softened and the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve It Up:
To serve, place the grilled chicken breasts on plates and generously spoon the warm sweet peach chipotle sauce over the top. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with white rice or your favorite side!
Enjoy this flavorful grilled chicken with a delightful combo of sweet, smoky, and spicy sauce – it’s bound to impress!
FAQs about Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peaches work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before using, and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery sauce.
How Can I Make the Sauce Milder?
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chipotle pepper you use or omit it entirely. You can also substitute it with smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the heat!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Grilling?
Yes, marinating the chicken can enhance the flavor! A simple marinade of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and seasonings for a few hours or overnight will add extra moisture and taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Feel free to enjoy this dish as a delicious meal prep option or for a family dinner!
