This grilled chicken is packed with flavor thanks to a tasty peach chipotle sauce that adds a sweet and smoky kick. It’s perfect for barbecue nights!
I love how the juicy peaches blend with the spicy chipotle. It’s like a summer party on your plate! Serve it with rice or fresh salad for a complete meal that shines.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for this recipe, as they grill up nice and juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use chicken thighs instead. They’re still tender and have great flavor.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches add sweetness and a real summer vibe. If peaches aren’t in season, feel free to substitute with nectarines or even canned peaches (just drain them). They’ll change the texture a bit, but will still be tasty.
Chipotle Peppers: These give the sauce a delicious kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can start with just one chipotle pepper. You can also use smoked paprika for a milder flavor without losing that smoky touch.
Honey: Adds balance to the sauce. If you’re vegan or want sugar-free, maple syrup or agave nectar works well too. Just remember, they might alter the flavor slightly.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is perfect for garnish because it brightens up the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a great alternative that gives freshness without the distinct flavor of cilantro.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps it cook evenly all the way through.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep it juicy!
Following these steps will ensure your chicken is perfect and ready for that delicious peach chipotle sauce!
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the chipotle can
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 15 minutes to cook. Total time from start to finish is about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously onto both sides of the chicken breasts to keep them flavorful and juicy while they cook.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to look for the chicken to be no longer pink in the center and to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
4. Prepare the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, grab a medium saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add the diced peaches, chopped onion, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, honey, and lime juice. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the peaches soften and the sauce thickens nicely. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble and Garnish:
To serve, place the grilled chicken on plates and generously top it with the warm peach chipotle sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle with fresh cilantro to add a bit of color and freshness!
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Your grilled chicken with peach chipotle sauce is ready to be enjoyed! Pair it with rice or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Dig in!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What if I Can’t Find Fresh Peaches?
No worries! You can substitute fresh peaches with canned peaches in syrup or juice. Just drain them well and chop before using. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so taste the sauce and adjust the honey if needed!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken and peach chipotle sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in the microwave or on the grill, and gently reheat the sauce on the stove over low heat.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the peach chipotle sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick reheat before serving, adding a splash of water if it’s too thick.
