This grilled chicken is juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to the sweet peach chipotle sauce. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and a little spicy!
I love that this recipe is so easy—it only takes a few ingredients and a grill! It’s perfect for summer BBQs or a simple weekday dinner. Just watch out for extra sauce—it’s delicious! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets can work, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to adjust cooking time for different proteins!
Peaches: Fresh peaches bring a juicy sweetness to the sauce. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches in light syrup. Just be sure to drain and rinse them before using them to control the sweetness.
Chipotle Peppers: These add a lovely heat and smoky flavor. If you want a milder sauce, use just one chipotle pepper or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika. For a different flavor, try using roasted red peppers.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener works well for the sauce. If you’re looking for a vegan option, go for agave syrup. You could also reduce the sweetness by using less or opting for a sugar substitute.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without It Drying Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky since it can dry out quickly! Here’s how to keep it juicy:
- Start with marination or seasoning. The first rub of spices helps keep the chicken flavorful and moist.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to sear the chicken. This locks in moisture.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side—don’t flip too often! This helps achieve nice grill marks and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. At 165°F (75°C), your chicken is perfectly done.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute!
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or shallot
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
- Optional: cooked white rice or your choice of side for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for grilling and cooking the sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help give your chicken those delicious grill marks and keep it juicy!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix all over the chicken breasts to coat them evenly. This adds fantastic flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Lightly brush the chicken with a little olive oil to help it not stick to the grill. This also adds extra flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has golden grill marks. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
5. Make the Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, get a skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté until it softens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Add the Peaches and Spin the Sauce:
Add the chopped peaches, minced chipotle peppers, honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar to the skillet. Cook this mixture for 5-7 minutes until the peaches are soft and everything is well combined. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro. This adds freshness to the sauce!
8. Serve Everything Together:
Once the chicken is grilled, serve it hot, topped generously with the peach chipotle sauce. Pair it with white rice or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Feel free to garnish with extra cilantro if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious, homemade grilled chicken with sweet peach chipotle sauce!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for even results. Thawing overnight is best, or you can use the cold water method: submerge the chicken in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour.
Can I Substitute Peaches with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, plums or nectarines are great alternatives. You can also use canned fruit; just make sure to drain the syrup and adjust the sweetness as needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stove. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid drying it out!
What Can I Serve with This Grilled Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with white rice or quinoa, but you can also serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even corn on the cob for a delicious summer meal!
