Name: Jalapeno Peach Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into ¾-inch pieces; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon white pepper; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce ((or GF tamari)); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 whole jalapeño, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 small peaches, diced ((or 1 large)); Sesame seeds, optional ((for topping)); ⅓ cup peach or apricot preserves; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes ((or ½ minced red jalapeño))

Introduction to Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Why Jalapeno Peach Chicken is perfect for weeknight dinners

When it comes to weeknight dinners, the balance between ease and flavor is essential. Enter jalapeno peach chicken! This delightful dish combines the sweetness of juicy peaches with the mild heat of jalapeños, creating a symphony of flavors that can elevate your mealtime without a significant time commitment.

Perfect for busy professionals or families, this recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for those evenings when cooking feels like a chore. The chicken comes out tender and succulent, while the sauce delivers that mouthwatering blend of sweet and spicy, sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Moreover, using ingredients like peach preserves and fresh jalapeños makes this dish not only delicious but also colorful and appealing. Serve it over fluffy rice, and you've got a plate full of happiness! For those looking to mix things up, consider pairing this with a refreshing side salad or some sautéed veggies to complete your healthy meal.

Ready to dive deeper into this quick and tasty recipe? Let’s explore how to whip up your own jalapeno peach chicken!

Ingredients for Jalapeno Peach Chicken

When you’re ready to whip up this jalapeno peach chicken, gathering the right ingredients is your first step to success. This dish stands out with its perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers.

For the Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into ¾-inch pieces
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon white pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce (or gluten-free tamari)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons avocado oil
1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 small peaches, diced (or 1 large, firm peach)
Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

For the Sauce:

⅓ cup peach or apricot preserves
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 teaspoons low sodium soy sauce
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or ½ minced red jalapeño)

By using fresh ingredients, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your jalapeno peach chicken. If you're curious about the benefits of peaches, check out health resources like the Healthline for more insight! Plus, avocado oil is a fantastic choice for cooking because of its high smoke point and heart-healthy fat.

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Let’s get to it!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Cooking can often feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, making a delicious jalapeno peach chicken dish in just 30 minutes is a breeze! Let's dive into the process together.

Velveting the Chicken

Velveting is a unique Chinese cooking technique that helps lock in moisture and tenderize meat. Start by cutting 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breast into ¾-inch pieces. In a large bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of water, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of white pepper, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, and 2 teaspoons of low sodium soy sauce. Stir until the baking soda dissolves, which can take a minute or so.

Next, add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Give it a good stir to coat all the pieces, and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This simple step will prepare your chicken for a wonderfully tender texture.

Preparing the Sauce

While the chicken is velveting, it's time to whip up the sauce that makes this jalapeno peach chicken dish so special. In a separate bowl, combine ⅓ cup of peach or apricot preserves, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons of low sodium soy sauce, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (or half a minced red jalapeño if you're feeling adventurous). Add in 2 tablespoons of water to help loosen the mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined and set aside.

Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part! Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the marinated chicken without overcrowding the pan—I promise you’ll have crispy pieces this way. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-4 minutes, adding the thinly sliced jalapeño during the last 30-45 seconds of cooking. Once golden and cooked through, move the chicken and jalapeños to a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken, adding more oil as necessary.

Sautéing Aromatics and Combining

Time to bring it all together! Reduce the skillet’s temperature to medium-low and add 4 minced garlic cloves to the remaining oil. Cook for about 45 seconds until fragrant, then pour your prepared sauce into the skillet. Let it sizzle for about 45 seconds until it begins to thicken. Return the cooked chicken and jalapeños back to the pan, tossing everything to coat in that amazing sauce. Finally, add 2 small diced peaches during the last 30 seconds for a burst of freshness right before serving.

Serving the Dish

Plate up your jalapeno peach chicken over a bed of fluffy rice—this will truly take it to the next level! Optional but highly recommended: sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added crunch and a pop of flavor. Don’t forget a side of your favorite steamed veggies to balance out the meal.

Enjoy this sweet, spicy, and satisfying dish—your taste buds will thank you! For more delicious chicken recipes, check out sources like Serious Eats to expand your culinary horizons.

Variations on Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Spicy Mango Chicken Alternative

If you’re looking for a delightful twist to the classic jalapeno peach chicken, try substituting peaches with ripe mangoes. The sweet and slightly tropical flavor of mango complements the heat from jalapeños beautifully. Just replace the peach preserves with mango chutney or pureed mango for a vibrant sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

Sweet Chili Garlic Peach Chicken

For a sweeter take, consider a sweet chili garlic peach chicken. Use a sweet chili sauce instead of peach preserves. The garlic melds perfectly with the sweetness while enhancing that unexpected kick. This variation pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice and steamed broccoli, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Explore these alternatives to keep your chicken dishes exciting and delicious! For more personalized variations, check out this article on chicken flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Choosing the Right Peaches

For the best jalapeno peach chicken, opt for firm, ripe peaches. Their natural sweetness balances the spiciness of the jalapeños beautifully. A fresh peach not only adds flavor but also a lovely texture to the dish.

Spice Level Adjustments

If you're sensitive to heat, consider using only a few slices of jalapeño or removing the seeds to reduce the spiciness. Alternatively, if you love a kick, add extra red pepper flakes for more heat. It’s all about personal preference!

Cooking Tips

Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes to become extra tender.
For an even easier meal, swap in pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken and skip the velveting step.
Looking for sides? This dish pairs perfectly with steamed veggies or a light salad.

Experiment, enjoy, and savor your jalapeno peach chicken!

Serving Suggestions for Jalapeno Peach Chicken

For a delightful dining experience with your jalapeno peach chicken, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. This will soak up the delicious sauce and balance out the heat from the jalapeños. You can also pair it with fresh steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas for a pop of color and nutrients.

Feeling adventurous? Add an extra layer of flavor by topping it with crunchy toasted almonds or fresh cilantro. A refreshing side salad with citrus vinaigrette can also complement the dish wonderfully. Enjoy the vibrant flavors with friends and family!

Time Breakdown for Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Preparation time
With just 10 minutes needed, this recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.

Cooking time
Ready to cook? The 10-minute cook time is a breeze, ensuring your mouthwatering jalapeno peach chicken is on the table in no time.

Total time
In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for your next dinner adventure!

For more recipes and tips, explore sites like Epicurious or Serious Eats. They offer a wealth of inspiration to keep your cooking exciting!

Nutritional Facts for Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Calories

Each serving of jalapeno peach chicken contains approximately 352 calories, making it a satisfying option for a quick dinner without the guilt.

Protein

Packed with 38 grams of protein per serving, this dish is not only delicious but also a great source of lean protein that supports muscle recovery and overall health.

Sodium

For those monitoring their sodium intake, our jalapeno peach chicken recipe has a modest sodium level, thanks to the use of low sodium soy sauce. It’s a flavorful option without overwhelming saltiness, allowing you to enjoy hearty flavors guilt-free.

For more on healthy eating habits, you can check resources like the American Heart Association.

FAQs about Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen chicken can be used in this jalapeno peach chicken recipe, but ensure that it's thoroughly thawed before cooking. This helps achieve even cooking and the right texture. You can thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.

What type of peaches work best?

For the best results, opt for firm peaches. Varieties like Freestone or Clingstone peaches work wonderfully, as their flavor intensifies when cooked. If peaches aren’t in season, canned peaches packed in juice can be a reliable substitute. Just be sure to drain them well!

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. Conversely, for extra spice, add more jalapeño or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. It’s all about finding the balance that works for your palate!

Conclusion on Jalapeno Peach Chicken

In summary, jalapeno peach chicken is a delightful fusion that perfectly balances sweetness and heat. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings—quick to prepare and sure to impress. Serve it over rice for a satisfying meal, and don’t forget to savor every bite!