Jalapeno Peach Chicken Glaze

Jalapeno Peach Chicken is my go-to dinner when I want something vibrant and bold on the table without a lot of fuss. The sweet and spicy combo from ripe peaches and jalapenos wakes up your tastebuds and plain chicken never tasted so lively.

My family always talks about this dish for days afterward because of the unexpected hit of heat and fruitiness. It became a summer favorite the first time juicy peaches popped up at my market.

Ingredients

• Yellow peaches: Choose ripe but firm fruit for perfect slices that hold their shape during cooking
• Peach preserves: This creates the base of your glaze so look for a jar with plenty of real peach pieces
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything blend together
• Soy sauce: Lends depth and balances the sweetness
• Apple cider vinegar: Gives a gentle tang to tie together all the flavors
• Dijon mustard: Adds subtle bite and complexity
• Garlic: Choose fresh and mince finely for zestiness
• Kosher salt: Enhances all the contrasting flavors
• Black pepper: Gives mild heat
• Red pepper flakes: This is where more kick sneaks in so sprinkle to taste
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Pick evenly sized pieces for juicy and consistent cooking
• Chili powder: Introduces a smoky subtle spice layer
• Jalapeno pepper: Look for firm and glossy peppers and slice thin so you wake up the dish without overwhelming it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Peach Glaze:

In a medium bowl combine the peach preserves extra virgin olive oil soy sauce apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard garlic kosher salt black pepper and red pepper flakes Mix until everything is smooth and cohesive Set aside

Season the Chicken:

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels so you get a perfect sear In a small bowl stir together kosher salt black pepper and chili powder Rub this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh

Sear the Chicken:

Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium When the oil shimmering but not smoking add chicken thighs working in batches if needed so there is space around each piece Cook for five minutes on one side Flip thighs over and lower the heat to medium low Continue cooking for another five minutes or until they hit an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit Remove from skillet and tent loosely with foil to keep warm

Sauté Jalapenos and Peaches:

Return heat under the skillet to medium Toss in the thinly sliced jalapenos and cook for three minutes until they start to soften Then add the peach slices cooking for another three minutes just until they are bright and just begin to tenderize

Glaze and Finish:

Pour your prepared peach glaze into the warm skillet Stir with the peaches and jalapenos so everything is coated Add the cooked chicken thighs back to the pan Spoon the fruit and glaze generously over the chicken Heat for another one to two minutes so everything is piping hot

Serve Warm:

Scoop the saucy chicken and fruit onto plates while everything is still steaming

Save

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how the peaches transform when cooked they become extra fragrant and remind me of barbecue with my kids in late July everything sticky and sweet

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely and transfer to an airtight container Refrigerate up to three days For best texture reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep the sauce loose The glaze may thicken when cold but will loosen once heated

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find fresh peaches canned peaches packed in juice work in a pinch Just drain well before slicing into wedges You can also swap peach preserves for apricot preserves for a similar effect Try using red pepper instead of jalapeno if you like less heat

Serving Suggestions

Jalapeno Peach Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed rice or garlic mashed potatoes to soak up all the extra glaze Add a simple side salad or roasted green beans for color and crunch

Cultural Context

Sweet and spicy fruit with meat is a beloved combination in Southern kitchens and backyard barbecues Shiny juicy peaches signal the start of warm weather and bring a touch of nostalgia to modern weeknight meals

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be substituted, but watch closely to avoid overcooking as they tend to dry out more quickly than thighs. Adjust cook time as needed.

→ What can I use in place of fresh peaches?

If fresh peaches aren't available, drained canned or thawed frozen peaches work well. For best flavor, ensure any excess liquid is patted off before cooking.

→ Is there a milder version for less heat?

To reduce spiciness, remove the seeds from the jalapeno and skip the red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust as you go.

→ Can this be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the chicken and peach glaze in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving to preserve flavor and texture.

→ What are good sides to serve with this dish?

Great options include fluffy rice, lightly seasoned roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, or simple crusty bread to soak up the flavorful glaze.