Spicy Peach Pecan Salsa Chicken

This Spicy Peach and Pecan Salsa Chicken brings sunshine to any dinner table Juicy chicken breasts are baked to perfection then finished with a vibrant salsa packed with sweet peaches crunchy pecans zesty lime and a dash of heat If you are hunting for a summer main that feels fancy yet easy this one never fails me

When peaches arrive at the market I make this recipe every week My family always raves about the contrast of cool salsa and juicy hot chicken and there are never leftovers

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose breasts that are firm and pink for best texture and juicy results
• Olive oil: Gives the chicken a golden finish and keeps it tender go for extra virgin if you can
• Smoked paprika: Brings a mild smoky kick Use a Spanish variety for the most depth
• Ground cumin: Boosts earthy warmth Try freshly ground for stronger fragrance
• Salt: Balances the sweet and savory elements Use kosher salt when possible
• Black pepper: Adds punch Pick freshly cracked for best flavor
• Ripe peaches: Deliver natural sweetness and juiciness Look for fragrant peaches that give slightly to touch
• Tomato: Provides freshness and color Choose a ripe heavy tomato for juiciness
• Red onion: Adds sharpness and crunch Select onions with shiny tight skin and no green shoots
• Jalapeño: Gives heat Choose firm glossy jalapeños and adjust the amount for your spice preference
• Pecans: Add buttery crunch Toasting brings out their flavor Choose halves with no signs of bitterness
• Fresh cilantro: Delivers brightness Only use leaves that are vibrant and verdant
• Lime juice: Lifts all the flavors Seek a heavy lime with glossy skin for the juiciest squeeze
• Honey: Accentuates the natural sweetness of the peaches Opt for a raw local honey if possible

Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easy and prevent sticking

Season the Chicken:

Combine olive oil smoked paprika cumin salt and pepper in a small bowl Mix until you have a fragrant red paste Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts Use your hands to work it into every crease so each bite is flavorful

Bake the Chicken:

Arrange the chicken breasts with space between them on the baking sheet Cook in the hot oven for 20 to 25 minutes Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part it should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius If the juices run clear you are good

Rest the Chicken:

Let the chicken sit out of the oven for 5 minutes before slicing This ensures all the juices settle in and the meat stays tender

Mix the Salsa:

While the chicken bakes dice the peaches seed and dice the tomato finely chop the red onion and mince the jalapeño Toast your pecans in a dry skillet for two to three minutes until fragrant let them cool and then chop Combine fruits vegetables nuts cilantro lime juice honey and salt in a medium bowl Gently toss to keep everything intact

Serve:

Once your chicken is sliced spoon the bright salsa over the top Serve immediately for peak texture and taste

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Sweet juicy peaches are my summer obsession and combining them with pecans makes me think of family cookouts where everyone gathers around a big tray of chicken topped with homemade salsa The aroma of toasted pecans always reminds me of warm July evenings with friends

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Keep the salsa and chicken in separate containers for best texture Rewarm the chicken gently in the oven or sliced in a skillet Do not freeze the salsa as peaches and tomatoes can turn mushy when thawed

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute nectarines for peaches when stone fruits overlap Try chopped walnuts if pecans are not available or skip the nuts for a lighter version For extra spice use the whole jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce

Serving Suggestions

This chicken shines with a side of cilantro lime rice or grilled corn It also works sliced over mixed greens for a summer salad Try leftovers piled in a glutenfree wrap for lunch

Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration

This recipe draws on traditional southern combinations of fruit and nuts making it a cheerful addition to summer gatherings I first tried adding pecans to salsa after tasting a Georgia peach salad and have never looked back

Seasonal Adaptations

Use white peaches if yellow are not available Swap in nectarines or even ripe mangoes for a creative twist Top with extra herbs from your garden like mint or basil

Success Stories

I have heard from friends who make this dish for easy summer parties and it is always a hit My neighbor once took some leftovers and made it into tacos for her kids they polished their plates

Freezer Meal Conversion

While the chicken itself can be cooked cooled and frozen tightly wrapped for up to two months the salsa is best made fresh on the day you want to serve For meal prepping just freeze the chicken and prep the salsa ingredients ahead

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This dish delivers happy colors and lively flavors make it ahead for your next summer gathering and watch the compliments roll in

Frequently asked questions about this recipe

→ Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?

Yes, nectarines work beautifully. They offer a similar sweetness and texture that pairs well with pecans and salsa.

→ How do I toast pecans for the salsa?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant and lightly browned.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all listed ingredients are gluten-free. Always check labels for hidden sources of gluten or contamination.

→ How do I increase the spice level?

For extra heat, leave jalapeño seeds in or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the salsa mix.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Cilantro rice and grilled corn are excellent choices, complementing the sweet and zesty notes of the chicken and salsa.

→ Can this be made ahead?

You can prepare the salsa in advance and refrigerate. Cook chicken just before serving for best flavor and texture.