This grilled chicken is brought to life with a sweet and spicy peach chipotle sauce. The juicy chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy flavors, making every bite a treat!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good sweet and spicy combo? I love serving this dish with rice or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for a sunny day barbecue! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and easy eating. If you have chicken thighs, they can work too; they’re juicier and have more flavor.
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches are best for this sauce, giving it natural sweetness. If peaches aren’t in season, canned peaches in juice or nectar are ready substitutes; just drain them well before use.
Chipotle Peppers: These bring a smoky heat to the sauce. If you’re wary of spice, start with one pepper and add more to your taste. Alternatively, use smoked paprika for smokiness without the heat, adjusting the quantity as needed.
Honey: It adds sweetness to balance the spicy sauce. You can substitute maple syrup or agave syrup for a different flavor profile while keeping it sweetness.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This gives a tangy kick. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes. Just use less, as they can be sharper.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Grill-Perfect?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to get it right. First, make sure your grill is preheated to the right temperature (about 375°F to 450°F). This helps to lock in moisture as the chicken cooks.
- Rub olive oil and spices thoroughly on the chicken; this adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Use direct heat to grill for 6-7 minutes per side. Check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F when done.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
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
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for spiciness)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for grilling and sauce preparation. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and sweet spicy sauce is well worth the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 375°F to 450°F. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice char.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper together. Take this flavor-packed mixture and rub it all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill over direct heat. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
4. Make the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is resting, it’s time to whip up the sauce! In a medium saucepan, combine the diced peaches, red onion, chopped chipotle peppers, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the peaches to soften and the mixture to thicken slightly.
5. Serve It Up:
Once your sauce is ready, check the seasoning and add a pinch of salt if needed. Now you’re ready to serve! Place the grilled chicken on plates, pour the warm peach chipotle sauce over the top, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Add a side of cooked rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken with Peach Chipotle Sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely first. The best way to do this is to place the chicken in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour to thaw it quickly. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and grilling to prevent excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Peaches?
If peaches are out of season or unavailable, you can substitute them with nectarines or even apricots for a similar flavor profile. If using canned peaches, make sure to drain them well before adding them to the sauce.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach chipotle sauce a day ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
How Should I 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 gently on the grill or in a skillet, and heat the sauce in a saucepan or microwave until hot. Enjoy it again over rice or as a sandwich filling!
