This Healthy Peach Chicken Picante is a tasty mix of chicken, juicy peaches, and flavorful spices. It’s light and fresh, perfect for a quick dinner!
I love how the sweetness of the peaches balances the spices. It turns a simple meal into something special. Serve this with rice for a yummy combo! 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to here for their lean protein. If you’re looking for alternatives, try turkey breast or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Fresh peaches give a sweet flavor, but you can use canned peaches if they’re out of season. Just drain them to avoid extra syrupy sweetness.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are great, but canned diced tomatoes work too. If you want a little more spice, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika brings warmth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine. Adjust the chili powder if you prefer it milder or want to kick it up a notch!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky. Here’s a simple approach to ensure it’s juicy and well-cooked:
- First, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Make sure it’s hot before adding the chicken to get a nice sear.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the pan) to ensure even cooking. Flip them halfway through to brown on both sides.
- After adding the peaches and tomatoes, simmer gently. This helps the chicken to finish cooking without drying out.
Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken; it should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part to ensure it’s safely cooked!
Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 large ripe peaches, peeled and diced (or 1 can of peaches, drained)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth or water
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that packs in the flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This is the base of your flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle them with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
3. Combine Fruits and Vegetables:
Stir in the diced peaches and tomatoes. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth or water, and mix well to combine everything. This will create a deliciously juicy sauce!
4. Simmer to Perfection:
Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through completely and the peaches to soften, creating a beautiful melding of flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Adjust and Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked and the peaches are tender, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. It’s now ready to be served!
6. Plate and Garnish:
Serve the peach chicken picante over a generous portion of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Top with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your Healthy Peach Chicken Picante, a colorful and nutritious dish that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Healthy Peach Chicken Picante
Can I Use Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen peaches can be used in this recipe! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the skillet. This will help avoid a watery dish and ensure the best flavor and texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like extra heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when cooking the chicken. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or even experiment with cayenne pepper for that extra kick!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the peach chicken picante in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, just reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs beautifully with brown rice or quinoa, which soak up the delicious sauce. For an added crunch, you can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal.