This delicious grilled chicken is super easy to make and pairs perfectly with a sweet and spicy peach chipotle sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any summer cookout!
The best part? That sauce! It adds a burst of flavor that makes the chicken shine. I like to serve it with rice or fresh veggies for a tasty meal—so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling due to their lean nature. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust cooking time as they may take a bit longer.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches add sweetness. If they’re out of season, you can use canned peaches in juice or syrup, but be mindful of the sweetness. Adjust the honey accordingly!
Chipotle Pepper: This adds smoky heat. If you want a milder sauce, use less chipotle or try smoked paprika instead. For a different flavor, add jalapeño or sriracha.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both provide sweetness that balances the spices. If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, use agave syrup or a sugar substitute that measures like honey.
How Do I Get Grilled Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy grilled chicken starts with good seasoning and cooking technique. Start by ensuring your chicken is at room temperature before grilling; this helps it cook evenly.
- Make a seasoning rub with olive oil and spices, which locks in moisture as the chicken cooks.
- Cook over medium-high heat for around 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken that pairs beautifully with that sweet peach chipotle sauce!
Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled, pitted, and diced
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or fresh lime juice
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes for cooking. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying your grilled chicken in about 25-30 minutes, including preparing the sweet peach chipotle sauce. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is key for ensuring your chicken gets a nice sear and cooks evenly.
2. Make the Seasoning Rub:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. This will create a flavorful seasoning rub for your chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the seasoning rub and thoroughly coat both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they are well-covered to lock in flavor while cooking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and for the juices to run clear before taking them off the grill.
5. Prepare the Peach Chipotle Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a saucepan and set it over medium heat. Combine the diced peaches, chopped chipotle pepper, honey, and apple cider vinegar in the pan. Stir occasionally.
6. Cook the Sauce:
Let the mixture cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peaches soften and the sauce thickens slightly. This will enhance the flavors and create a delightful sauce for your chicken.
7. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Once the sauce reaches the desired consistency, stir in the chopped green onions and cilantro. Remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
8. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial for juicy chicken.
9. Assemble the Dish:
Generously spoon the warm peach chipotle sauce over each grilled chicken breast. The sweetness of the peaches and the kick from the chipotle make a wonderful combo!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious grilled chicken with white rice or your favorite side dish. Top with extra cilantro for garnish if desired. Now, dig in and enjoy the burst of flavors!
This dish is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor—perfect for any weeknight dinner!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach Chipotle Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for the best results.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chipotle pepper or omit it entirely. You can also substitute it with a bit of smoked paprika for flavor without the heat. For more heat, consider adding an extra chipotle or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
What Should I Do with Leftover Sauce?
Leftover peach chipotle sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a week. It’s delicious on grilled meats, fish, or even as a topping for tacos. Reheat gently before using.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peach chipotle sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick reheat in a saucepan before serving it over the grilled chicken!
