This easy grilled chicken is a tasty treat! It’s marinated to perfection with a sweet peach chipotle sauce that adds a fun kick. It’s perfect for summer barbecues!
The mix of juicy peaches and a hint of spice makes every bite special. I love serving it with a fresh salad on the side—so light and delicious! 🍑🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you want a different cut, try thighs—they stay juicier and add more flavor.
Peaches: Fresh peaches give the best flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches—just make sure to drain them well.
Chipotle Pepper: This adds a smoky heat. If you prefer something milder, you could use a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper instead.
Honey: The honey balances the heat and adds sweetness. Maple syrup is a great substitute if you want a vegan option.
Jalapeño: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, skip this or use a milder pepper like bell pepper for some crunch without the heat.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few steps will help you nail it! First, make sure your grill is preheated. This ensures a nice sear that locks in moisture.
- Brush the chicken with oil and spices for flavor. Don’t skip this!
- Flip the chicken only once to avoid drying it out—this also creates nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for juicy chicken.
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle pepper can)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes for grilling, making it a quick meal in just 25 minutes total! Get excited for a delicious dinner in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken will have lovely grill marks and cook evenly!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This will create a tasty marinade. Brush the chicken breasts on both sides with this mixture to coat them well.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Make the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the sweet peach chipotle sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced peaches, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, honey or maple syrup, lime juice, and jalapeño if you’re using it. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until the peaches are soft and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Final Touches:
Once the sauce is ready, take it off the heat and mix in the chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the grilled chicken and generously spoon the warm peach chipotle sauce over the top. Pair it with your favorite sides like steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
This dish perfectly balances smoky flavors from the grilled chicken with the sweetness and spice of the peach chipotle topping. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling. You can thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop, and warm the sauce gently in a saucepan.
Can I Make This Sauce Without Chipotle?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of spice, you can skip the chipotle and use smoked paprika for flavor instead. You could also add a bit of liquid smoke to retain that smoky taste.
What To Serve With This Dish?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or corn on the cob also complement the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully!
