This Easy Peach Chicken Picante is a flavor-packed dish that combines tender chicken with sweet peaches and zesty salsa. It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Leftover chicken works too, just adjust the cooking time.
Peach Salsa: Store-bought peach salsa saves time, but homemade is always a winner! If peaches aren’t in season, try mango salsa or pineapple salsa for a twist.
Fresh Peaches: Fresh peaches add sweetness. If they’re not available, canned peaches can substitute, but drain them well to avoid extra moisture.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder bring warmth. Adjust these based on your heat preference. If you want it milder, omit the chili powder.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken well is key to this recipe. First, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps achieve a nice browning, which adds flavor.
- Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Season just before cooking to enhance flavor.
- Cook until no longer pink inside, but avoid overcooking for tenderness. You want an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Following these steps will give you juicy, flavorful chicken in your Peach Chicken Picante!
Easy Peach Chicken Picante
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup peach salsa (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked brown rice or white rice (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a fantastic meal ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before proceeding. This will ensure the chicken gets a nice golden brown color.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them generously with salt, pepper, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
3. Add the Salsa and Peaches:
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the peach salsa and the chopped fresh peaches. Reduce the heat to medium and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and the chicken to absorb all that delicious sauce.
4. Prepare the Rice:
While the chicken and salsa are simmering, cook the rice according to the package instructions. You can use either brown or white rice depending on your preference. It’s the perfect base for the picante.
5. Serve:
Once your chicken is ready and your rice is cooked, it’s time to plate! Serve the peach chicken picante hot over the rice, allowing that sauce to drizzle down and flavor the rice.
6. Garnish:
Finally, add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness. It not only looks great but also adds a nice herbal note to the dish.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Peach Chicken Picante! It’s a wonderful dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Peach Chicken Picante
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely beforehand, ideally in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce or omit the chili powder. Alternatively, you can balance the heat with a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. For more heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce!
What Can I Substitute for Peach Salsa?
If you don’t have peach salsa, you can use any fruit salsa, like mango or pineapple. You could also make your own by combining diced peaches, diced tomatoes, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for freshness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Peach Chicken Picante in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
