Sweet and Spicy Chicken

Featured in Inspiring Dinner Ideas.

This dish combines seasoned chicken thighs with a sweet peach glaze and fresh jalapenos for a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, ready in just over 30 minutes.
Sarah
Updated on Tue, 21 Jan 2025 10:34:31 GMT
A skillet filled with juicy chicken thighs garnished with green peppers and surrounded by slices of peaches in a savory sauce. Pin it
A skillet filled with juicy chicken thighs garnished with green peppers and surrounded by slices of peaches in a savory sauce. | kitchenscroll.com

I created this Jalapeno Peach Chicken one summer evening when my peach tree was overflowing with fruit. The combination of sweet juicy peaches with spicy jalapenos turned out to be absolutely magical. Every time I make it now my kitchen fills with this amazing aroma that brings everyone running to the table.

A Dance of Flavors

What makes this dish so special is how the sweetness from the peaches plays with the kick from the jalapenos. The chicken soaks up all those wonderful flavors becoming tender and juicy. I love serving this for casual family dinners but it's impressive enough for company too.

What You'll Need

The secret to this recipe is good peach preserves they give you that concentrated sweetness that fresh peaches alone can't provide. I love using fresh peaches when they're in season but canned or frozen work great too. Apple cider vinegar adds that perfect tang while chicken thighs stay juicy and tender. The jalapenos are your heat control add more or less depending on how spicy you like things.

Let's Get Cooking

Start by mixing up that gorgeous marinade the preserves peaches and vinegar create this amazing glaze. Season those chicken thighs well they can handle lots of flavor. When you're searing the chicken listen for that sizzle it means you're getting good color. Once you add the marinade magic starts happening the sauce gets thick and sticky while the chicken stays perfectly moist. Those jalapenos at the end give everything a fresh kick of heat.

A skillet filled with succulent chicken thighs simmering in a savory sauce, garnished with fresh herbs and surrounded by sliced peaches and jalapeños. Pin it
A skillet filled with succulent chicken thighs simmering in a savory sauce, garnished with fresh herbs and surrounded by sliced peaches and jalapeños. | kitchenscroll.com

Spice It Your Way

My family likes it spicy but you can easily adjust the heat. Take out the jalapeno seeds and membranes for milder flavor or add an extra pepper if you're brave. Those white lines on jalapenos actually mean they're spicier perfect if you love heat.

Keeping It Fresh

This chicken tastes amazing the next day too. Just pop it in an airtight container and it'll keep in the fridge for several days. When you're reheating add a splash of liquid to keep everything moist. It even freezes well making it perfect for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, you can reduce or increase the amount of jalapenos and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference. Remove jalapeno seeds for less heat.
→ Can I use canned peaches?
While fresh peaches are best, you can use canned peaches in a pinch. Drain them well and reduce cooking time as they're already soft.
→ Why pat the chicken dry?
Patting the chicken dry helps the seasoning stick better and promotes better browning when cooking.
→ Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, though chicken thighs provide more flavor and moisture. If using breasts, adjust cooking time and be careful not to overcook.
→ How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Jalapeno Peach Chicken

Pan-fried chicken thighs glazed with a sweet peach sauce and spicy jalapenos. The perfect balance of heat and sweetness in every bite.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
16 Minutes
Total Time
31 Minutes

Category: Dinner Delights

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American Fusion

Yield: 6 Servings (6 servings)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2 yellow peaches, pitted and sliced.
02 1/2 cup peach preserves (160g).
03 1 tablespoon olive oil for glaze.
04 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
05 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.
06 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
07 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic.
08 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt for glaze.
09 1/8 teaspoon black pepper for glaze.
10 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
11 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs.
12 1 teaspoon kosher salt for chicken.
13 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for chicken.
14 1/2 teaspoon chili powder.
15 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking.
16 1 medium jalapeno pepper, thinly sliced.

Instructions

Step 01

Mix peach preserves, oil, soy sauce, vinegar, mustard, garlic, salt, peppers in bowl.

Step 02

Pat chicken dry. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder.

Step 03

Cook in oil 5 minutes per side until 165°F internal temperature. Remove and tent.

Step 04

Cook jalapenos 3 minutes, add peaches and cook 3 more minutes until soft.

Step 05

Add glaze to pan, coat vegetables. Return chicken, spoon glaze over, heat 1-2 minutes.

Notes

  1. May need to cook chicken in batches.
  2. Can adjust spice level.
  3. Serve warm.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large nonstick skillet.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Soy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 412
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein: 35 g