
This jalapeno peach chicken delivers an irresistible combination of sweet and spicy flavors that dance across your palate with each bite. The succulent chicken thighs remain juicy and tender while absorbing the vibrant glaze made from sweet peach preserves and spicy jalapenos. As the ingredients simmer together, they create a beautiful harmony where the natural sweetness of the peaches balances perfectly with the subtle heat of the peppers. The result is a dish that feels sophisticated yet comforting, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
I created this recipe during peach season when I found myself with an abundance of ripe fruit and a craving for something beyond the usual desserts. The first time I served it to friends, conversation stopped momentarily as everyone savored that first bite. Even my brother-in-law, who typically avoids anything remotely spicy, asked for seconds. The balance of flavors seems to appeal to almost everyone, making it one of my most requested recipes during summer gatherings.
Essential Ingredients
- Peach preserves: ½ cup (high-quality with visible fruit)
- Boneless chicken thighs: 2 pounds
- Jalapeño pepper: 1 medium (seeds adjusted for heat)
- Fresh yellow peaches: 2 medium (firm and ripe)
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: ½ teaspoon
Cooking Instructions
- Glaze Preparation:
- Whisk peach preserves, olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, Dijon, garlic, and spices
- Chicken Seasoning:
- Pat thighs dry, coat with salt, pepper, and chili powder
- Searing:
- Brown chicken in olive oil 5 minutes per side
- Vegetable Sauté:
- Cook jalapeños and peaches in drippings until softened
- Final Assembly:
- Combine glaze, vegetables, and chicken. Simmer 2 minutes to meld flavors

My family discovered this during a bountiful peach season. My husband, skeptical of fruit in savory dishes, became an instant convert. The kids loved the sweet-spicy balance, and we now preserve peaches specifically to make this year-round.
Serving Suggestions
- Jasmine rice to soak up glaze
- Steamed broccoli for crunch
- Cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing
- Crusty bread for sauce dipping
Heat Customization
- Mild: Use seeded jalapeños or poblanos
- Spicy: Add habanero or keep jalapeño seeds
- Zero Heat: Substitute Cubanelle peppers
Meal Prep Tips
- Make glaze 3 days ahead
- Season chicken 24 hours in advance
- Reheat leftovers with splash of water

This dish exemplifies how simple contrasts create magic. The sweet-spicy harmony surprises guests, transforming skepticism into delight. It's become our summer staple, proving unexpected pairings can yield unforgettable flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they cook faster and can dry out more easily. I recommend pounding them to even thickness and reducing the cooking time to about 4 minutes per side, or until they reach 165°F internally.
- → How spicy is this dish?
- With one jalapeno, it has a noticeable kick but isn't overwhelming. For milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno. For more heat, add another jalapeno or include some red pepper flakes.
- → Can I use canned or frozen peaches?
- Absolutely! If fresh peaches aren't available, thawed frozen peaches work great. Canned peaches will also work - just drain them well and use the ones packed in juice rather than syrup for best flavor.
- → What sides pair well with Jalapeno Peach Chicken?
- This chicken pairs wonderfully with cilantro lime rice, a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- → Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- You can prep the components ahead of time, but I recommend cooking it fresh for the best texture. If needed, you can reheat leftovers gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth to keep everything moist.