Introduction

This Jalapeno Peach Chicken is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, combining juicy peaches with a hint of heat from jalapenos. The peach glaze adds a flavorful coating that makes the chicken tender and delicious. It’s a simple yet impressive dish for any weeknight or special occasion.

A close-up view of a white skillet filled with six golden-brown cooked chicken thighs topped and surrounded by slices of yellow and red peaches, and green jalapeño slices in a shiny orange-brown sauce with visible herbs and seasoning. The chicken pieces have a crispy texture with a slight char, and the peach slices look soft and juicy. Fresh chopped green parsley is sprinkled over the whole dish, adding a touch of color. The skillet sits on a white marbled surface with some parsley pieces scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 yellow peaches, pitted and sliced
½ cup (160 g) peach preserves
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic, minced
½ teaspoon kosher salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon chili powder
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix together peach preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Set this peach glaze aside.
Step 2: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Season the chicken evenly with this spice mixture.
Step 3: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs in a single layer (work in batches if your skillet is small). Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Increase the heat back to medium and add the sliced jalapeno peppers to the same skillet. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add the sliced peaches to the jalapenos and cook for another 3 minutes until the peaches soften slightly.
Step 6: Pour the prepared peach glaze over the peaches and jalapenos in the skillet. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the glaze.
Step 7: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the glaze over the top. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, until the chicken is heated through and well coated.
Step 8: Serve the jalapeno peach chicken warm, spooning extra glaze from the skillet over the meat if desired.

Tips & Variations

For less heat, remove the jalapeno seeds before slicing or substitute with a milder pepper.
If peaches are out of season, canned or frozen peaches can be used, but drain well and cook a bit longer to reduce excess moisture.
Serve with rice or a fresh green salad to balance the dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of cooked chicken thighs covered with a glossy, light brown sauce that looks thick and shiny. On top of each chicken piece, there are slices of small yellow peach halves and green jalapeño rings, adding bright yellow and green colors. The chicken has a slightly crispy texture with small black pepper specks sprinkled over it. Small green herb bits are scattered on the dish, giving a fresh look. The background is a white marbled texture that contrasts with the warm food colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Reduce cooking time slightly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Is this dish spicy?

The jalapeno provides a moderate level of heat, balanced by the sweetness of the peaches and glaze. Adjust the amount of jalapeno or remove seeds to make it milder if preferred.