Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 peaches, diced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with olive oil.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Grill the chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Prepare the Peach-Jalapeño Mixture:
- While the chicken is grilling, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced peaches and sliced jalapeño to the skillet.
- Pour the honey mixture over the peaches and jalapeño slices.
- Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the peaches are tender.
- Glaze the Chicken:
- Once the chicken thighs are done, brush them generously with the peach-jalapeño glaze.
- Return the glazed chicken thighs to the grill and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes per side to caramelize the glaze.
- Serve:
- Transfer the glazed chicken thighs to a serving platter.
- Spoon the remaining peach-jalapeño mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Enjoy!
- Serve the Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs hot, accompanied by your favorite side dishes like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
This recipe combines the sweetness of peaches with the heat of jalapeño, creating a delicious glaze that perfectly complements grilled chicken thighs. It’s a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s sure to impress at any summer barbecue or family dinner.
Here are some tips to make your Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs even more delightful:
- Choose Ripe Peaches: Use ripe, juicy peaches for the glaze. They will add natural sweetness and enhance the flavor profile of the dish.
- Adjust Jalapeño Heat: Depending on your preference for spice, adjust the amount of jalapeño. For milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes before slicing.
- Marinate the Chicken: Marinate the chicken thighs in the honey-soy sauce mixture for 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Grill Over Charcoal: If possible, grill the chicken thighs over charcoal for a smokier flavor. The char from the grill will add another layer of complexity to the dish.
- Baste Frequently: While grilling, baste the chicken thighs with the peach-jalapeño glaze several times. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley over the chicken thighs just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve with Citrus: Squeeze some fresh lime or lemon juice over the chicken thighs before serving. The acidity will balance the sweetness of the glaze and add brightness to the dish.
- Grill Peach Halves: For an extra touch, grill peach halves alongside the chicken thighs until caramelized. Serve these alongside or on top of the chicken for added texture and flavor contrast.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Pair with Complementary Sides: Serve the Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with sides that complement the flavors, such as rice pilaf, quinoa salad, or grilled vegetables.
- Experiment with Cheese: Consider adding a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or feta over the chicken thighs before serving for a creamy, tangy addition.
- Drizzle with Honey: Just before serving, drizzle a little extra honey over the plated chicken thighs for a touch of sweetness and shine.
By incorporating these tips, you can elevate the flavors and presentation of your Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs, creating a dish that’s even more memorable and delicious. Enjoy!
To achieve the perfect Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs, here are some secrets and tips to follow:
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Choose Quality Ingredients:
- Use fresh, ripe peaches for the glaze. The sweetness and juiciness of ripe peaches will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Balance Sweetness and Heat:
- Adjust the amount of honey and jalapeño to balance sweetness and spiciness according to your taste preferences. Remember, removing seeds and membranes from jalapeños reduces heat.
- Marinate for Flavor:
- Marinate the chicken thighs in the honey-soy sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and makes it more tender.
- Grill with Precision:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and ensure it’s clean and oiled to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Baste and Glaze:
- Baste the chicken thighs generously with the peach-jalapeño glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. This adds layers of flavor and helps caramelize the glaze for a beautiful finish.
- Use Indirect Heat:
- If using a charcoal grill, consider using indirect heat by placing the chicken thighs on the cooler side of the grill after searing. This ensures even cooking without burning the glaze.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the grilled chicken thighs to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures juicier meat when sliced.
- Garnish Thoughtfully:
- Garnish the chicken thighs with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors of the dish.
- Serve with Accompaniments:
- Serve the Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with sides that complement the flavors, such as rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
- Experiment with Smokiness:
- Enhance the smoky flavor by adding a small amount of smoked paprika to the honey-soy sauce mixture or by using wood chips or chunks for smoking on a charcoal grill.
- Adjust for Thickness:
- If the chicken thighs vary in thickness, consider pounding them slightly to ensure even cooking. This helps them cook more evenly on the grill.
- Finish with a Squeeze of Citrus:
- Just before serving, squeeze a little fresh lime or lemon juice over the chicken thighs. This adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the glaze.
By following these secrets, you’ll be able to create Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs that are perfectly balanced in flavor, juicy, and bursting with deliciousness. Enjoy your cooking!
Here’s a compilation of 40 popular questions and answers related to Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs:
- What is Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs are boneless, skinless chicken thighs grilled and coated with a glaze made from peaches, jalapeños, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Marinate chicken thighs in honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Grill until cooked through. Cook diced peaches and sliced jalapeños in remaining marinade, then brush over chicken.
- Can Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs be made ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare the marinade and glaze ahead. Marinate chicken thighs up to 24 hours before grilling. Prepare peach-jalapeño mixture separately and store in fridge. Grill and reheat glaze before serving.
- What sides go well with Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Rice pilaf, quinoa salad, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad are excellent sides for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs.
- How spicy are Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- They have a moderate level of heat. Adjust spiciness by varying jalapeño quantity and removing seeds for milder flavor.
- Can you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs without a grill?
- Yes, use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake in the oven, then brush with peach-jalapeño glaze.
- How do you store leftovers of Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.
- Can you freeze Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- It’s not recommended as texture may change upon thawing.
- What are some variations of Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Use mango or pineapple instead of peaches, add smoked paprika or cayenne for more heat.
- Is Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs a healthy dish?
- They can be part of a healthy diet when paired with nutritious sides and ingredients, using lean chicken thighs and controlling portions of glaze.
- How long do you grill Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- What type of peaches are best for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Ripe, juicy peaches work best for the glaze to ensure sweetness and flavor.
- Can you use canned peaches for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Fresh peaches are recommended for best flavor, but drained canned peaches can be used in a pinch.
- How do you prevent chicken thighs from sticking to the grill?
- Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before grilling. Also, avoid moving the chicken too soon after placing it on the grill.
- What is a good substitute for jalapeños in Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Serrano peppers or crushed red pepper flakes can be used as substitutes for jalapeños.
- How do you know when Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs are done?
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken thighs has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Can you use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
- Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs less spicy?
- Use fewer jalapeños and remove seeds and membranes before slicing to reduce spiciness.
- What do you serve with Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs for a summer barbecue?
- Serve with grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, and watermelon slices for a refreshing summer meal.
- Can you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs in the oven?
- Yes, bake chicken thighs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, then brush with peach-jalapeño glaze.
- What beverages pair well with Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold beer like a light lager or pale ale.
- How do you thicken peach-jalapeño glaze for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Simmer the glaze longer to reduce and thicken it naturally, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir into the simmering glaze.
- Can you use frozen peaches for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Fresh peaches are recommended, but thawed and drained frozen peaches can be used in a pinch.
- Can Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs be made on a gas grill?
- Yes, preheat a gas grill to medium-high heat and follow the grilling instructions.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with a charcoal grill?
- Prepare charcoal grill for medium-high heat and grill chicken thighs until cooked through, then brush with glaze.
- What do you do if the glaze burns on Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Monitor the grill closely and adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. Baste the chicken with glaze toward the end of cooking to avoid burning early on.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with bone-in chicken thighs?
- Adjust grilling time to ensure bone-in thighs are cooked through, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Can Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs be made spicy?
- Yes, increase the amount of jalapeños or add crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicier dish.
- What do you do if the glaze is too sweet for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Balance sweetness by adding a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice to the glaze to enhance savory flavors.
- How do you keep Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs juicy?
- Marinate the chicken thighs and avoid overcooking on the grill to retain juiciness. Baste with glaze during grilling to add moisture.
- Can you use bone-in chicken breasts for Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs?
- Yes, adjust grilling time to ensure bone-in chicken breasts are cooked through.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with a honey substitute?
- Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with less sugar?
- Use less honey in the glaze or substitute with a sugar-free alternative like stevia or erythritol.
- Can you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs in a grill pan?
- Yes, preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and grill chicken thighs until cooked through, then brush with glaze.
- How do you adjust Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs for a larger crowd?
- Increase the quantity of ingredients proportionally and use multiple grilling surfaces or batches if needed.
- How do you prevent Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs from drying out?
- Monitor grilling time closely and baste chicken thighs with glaze to maintain moisture.
- Can you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs in an air fryer?
- Air frying is not recommended for this recipe as the glaze may not caramelize properly.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with a different fruit?
- Substitute peaches with mango, pineapple, or apricots for a variation in flavor.
- How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with extra garlic flavor?
- Increase the amount of minced garlic in the marinade or glaze to enhance garlic flavor.
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How do you make Grilled Peach-Jalapeño Glazed Chicken Thighs with a smoky flavor?