This Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze is a tasty dish that pairs juicy chicken with sweet peaches and a zesty glaze. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
You’ll feel like a champ when this lovely dish is on your table. I love how the peaches add a fun twist and make everyone smile. 🍑 Who doesn’t love a little sweetness with their dinner?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for quick cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work beautifully too, offering a juicier texture!
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring sweetness and a lovely flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches (in juice, not syrup) or even frozen peaches. Just thaw and drain them first.
Balsamic Vinegar: This provides a tangy kick. If you’re out, red wine vinegar mixed with a little sugar can give a similar effect. For a sweeter option, try apple cider vinegar.
Honey: Honey balances the vinegar’s acidity. Maple syrup or agave nectar make nice substitutes if you’re looking for something plant-based!
Herbs: Fresh thyme is ideal, but if you only have dried thyme, use half the amount. For a different twist, rosemary pairs well too!
How Do You Get the Chicken Nice and Juicy?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky; you want them juicy but well-cooked. Here’s how to achieve this:
- Use medium-high heat to create a golden crust while keeping the inside tender.
- Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety. An instant-read thermometer is super helpful!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more flavorful.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup fresh peaches, sliced (about 2 medium peaches)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and then about 20 minutes on actual cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat. Get ready for some deliciousness!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side until they turn a lovely golden brown and are fully cooked (should reach 165°F or 75°C). Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same skillet (which has all those flavorful bits left over), toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic. Be careful not to burn it – we want that lovely garlic flavor!
4. Add the Peaches:
Now, add the sliced peaches to the skillet. Cook them gently for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and release their sweetness. Yummy!
5. Make the Glaze:
Pour in the balsamic vinegar and honey, stirring everything together to create a nice mixture. Let this simmer for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens into a glaze. Smells fantastic, right?
6. Add the Thyme:
Stir in the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) to add a fragrant herbal note that complements the peaches beautifully.
7. Combine Chicken and Glaze:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and drizzle the peach and balsamic glaze over them. Cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. It’ll be hard to wait!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your Easy Peach Chicken with fresh basil or parsley if you want a pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish with family or friends!
Now you’re all set! Enjoy your flavorful Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
Can I Use Frozen Peaches in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen peaches, just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the skillet. This will prevent excess moisture in the glaze and keep the flavors focused!
What Can I Substitute for Balsamic Vinegar?
If you’re out of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar mixed with a teaspoon of sugar can work as a substitute. It won’t be quite the same, but it will provide a nice tangy flavor!
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up the glaze. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make excellent accompaniments!
