This Healthy Peach Chicken Picante is a fun mix of juicy chicken, sweet peaches, and zesty salsa. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor, perfect for a tasty dinner!
You won’t believe how the sweet peaches complement the spicy salsa! I love serving it over rice or in wraps. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to enjoy this delicious dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you need a substitution, consider using chicken thighs or even turkey cutlets for a different flavor and a bit more fat.
Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness and moisture. If not in season, canned peaches work too! Just make sure they’re in juice, not syrup. You could also replace peaches with mango for a tropical twist!
Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa is wonderful, but you can use any store-bought salsa or pico de gallo. For those who prefer less spice, opt for a mild version, or use a mix of tomatoes and more peaches for a sweeter touch.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika plus a dash of liquid smoke or even cumin can work. For a little more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but using a few techniques ensures it’s juicy and tender. The key is all about timing and temperature.
- Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan to lock in moisture. Don’t rush this step, as a good brown crust adds flavor!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
With these tips, you’re set to make a delicious Peach Chicken Picante that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup fresh or canned diced peaches (in juice, drained if canned)
- 1 cup fresh tomato salsa (or pico de gallo)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes for cooking, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you need it to bake the chicken.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder. This adds flavor that will infuse the chicken as it cooks.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear each side until they turn golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is super important for flavor!
4. Prepare the Peach Salsa:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a bowl and combine your diced peaches, tomato salsa, chopped red onion, jalapeño (if you like it spicy), cilantro, and lime juice. Stir everything together gently. This is the delicious topping that will go over your chicken!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Once your chicken is nicely browned, spoon the peach salsa mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure each piece is generously covered!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it tender. Then, serve the chicken topped with the peach salsa alongside rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Enjoy your vibrant and healthy Peach Chicken Picante! It’s a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor!
FAQ for Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but remember to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quick thaw. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen chicken may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture, then sear until golden. Use the same peach salsa mixture to add flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist during reheating.
What Can I Serve With Peach Chicken Picante?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it in wraps with some greens for a tasty meal. For a low-carb option, roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice work great too!
