This Easy Thai Peach Chicken is a tasty mix of juicy chicken and sweet peaches, all dressed in yummy Thai flavors. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy nights when you want something special!
I love how the juicy peaches balance the savory chicken. You’ll want to make this again and again! Serve it over rice for a meal that feels fancy but is super easy to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can try using tofu or shrimp!
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring that sweet flavor, but if they’re out of season, canned peaches in juice are a great substitute. Just make sure to drain them well!
Red Bell Pepper: This vegetable adds sweetness and color. If you can’t find red, yellow or orange bell peppers can also do the trick. For a bit of crunch, try adding snap peas or green beans.
Fish Sauce: It gives a unique umami flavor, but if you want a vegetarian option, you can use soy sauce or a bit of mushroom sauce.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s tender and juicy can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Use medium-high heat to quickly brown the chicken. Overcrowding the pan can cause steaming instead of browning, so work in batches if needed.
- Cook just until no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes for bite-sized pieces. Letting it sit for a minute after cooking helps retain moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
To achieve a nice, thick sauce, it’s all about the simmer:
- After adding the sauce ingredients, let everything cook together. This allows it to reduce and thicken. Don’t rush this step!
- If you want it thicker, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce while it simmers.
These tips will help you master this Easy Thai Peach Chicken and make it a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy!
Easy Thai Peach Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (about 700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 ripe peaches, sliced (fresh or canned in juice, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (from 1 lime)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1-2 teaspoons red chili flakes or fresh chopped red chili (adjust to preference)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For Serving:
- Cooked jasmine rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet delicious enough to impress! Enjoy your meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Chicken:
Begin by heating the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. When they are done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and slightly softened.
3. Combining with Peaches:
Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan along with the peach slices. Mix them together gently, allowing the flavors to combine.
4. Making the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, chicken broth, and chili flakes. Pour this delicious sauce over the chicken and peaches in the pan, making sure to stir well to coat everything evenly.
5. Simmering:
Let it all simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken a bit while heating the peaches without turning them mushy.
6. Final Touches:
Once it’s ready, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and fresh cilantro leaves on top for an added crunch and freshness.
7. Serving:
Serve your tasty Thai Peach Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy this sweet and savory dish with your family or friends!
This recipe combines savory, sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors for an easy and delightful weeknight meal inspired by Thai cuisine, featuring a refreshing peach twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing the chicken in the fridge overnight or using the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Fish Sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce or prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of lime juice for extra tang. Mushroom sauce can also work for a similar umami flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or carrots. Just adjust the cooking time a little to ensure all the veggies are tender but still crisp!
These FAQs should help you navigate the recipe with ease and make delicious adjustments! Enjoy your cooking!
