Chicken with Peaches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken with Peaches is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors that creates a perfect balance in every bite. Tender chicken breasts are paired with juicy, ripe peaches, garlic, and a rich balsamic-honey sauce, making this dish a real crowd-pleaser. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick family meal, this recipe will surely impress. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal fruit with your main course!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

• 2 ripe peaches, sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar

• 2 tbsp honey

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add sliced peaches and minced garlic to the skillet; sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4. Mix balsamic vinegar and honey in a bowl, then pour over the sautéed peaches. Stir well.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet with the peach sauce, spooning some sauce over the chicken. Transfer everything into an oven-safe dish.

6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Serve the chicken drizzled with the sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the peach sauce for an herbal twist.

• Grill the chicken: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken breasts instead of searing them in a skillet.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.

• Peach substitutes: If peaches are out of season, you can substitute with nectarines or plums for a similar sweet and juicy flavor.

• Add vegetables: Sauté some spinach or arugula along with the garlic and peaches to add more greens to the dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat. You may want to add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken. Just note that bone-in pieces will take a bit longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the baking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

2. What other fruits can I use besides peaches?

You can experiment with other fruits such as nectarines, plums, or even pears for a similar sweet and juicy flavor.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and peach sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just bake it as directed.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

5. Can I use a different type of vinegar?

While balsamic vinegar gives this dish a rich flavor, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar if necessary.

6. Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish with the peaches as they can become mushy. However, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. You can freeze the chicken and peach sauce separately and reheat them later.

7. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s properly cooked.

8. Can I use frozen peaches?

Fresh peaches are recommended for this recipe, but if you only have frozen peaches, you can use them as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.

9. Can I make this recipe without honey?

If you prefer not to use honey, you can substitute it with maple syrup or omit it altogether for a less sweet version of the dish.

10. Can I serve this with a side dish?

Yes, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Chicken with Peaches is a simple yet impressive dish that combines the best of both savory and sweet flavors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The tender chicken and juicy peaches, complemented by the rich balsamic and honey sauce, create a meal that’s both comforting and vibrant. With the added versatility in variations and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.