Spicy Peach Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Approximately 6 ounces each
  • Trimmed and pounded to even thickness if necessary
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • For cooking the chicken
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • To season the chicken breasts
• 1 (15-ounce) can peach halves in syrup
  • Drain the peaches and reserve the syrup
• 1/4 cup peach preserves
  • For added peach flavor and sweetness
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • Provides acidity to balance the sweetness
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • Adds umami and depth of flavor
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Adjust to taste for desired level of spiciness
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • Adds a zesty and aromatic touch
• 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Adds a rich, savory flavor
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • For thickening the sauce
• 2 tablespoons water
  • To dissolve the cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, add the reserved peach syrup, peach preserves, rice vinegar, soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the preserves have melted and the sauce is well combined.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
   • Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly.
   • Continue to simmer the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
5. Add the Peaches:
   • Cut the drained peach halves into slices and add them to the skillet.
   • Stir gently to coat the peaches with the sauce and heat through.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
   • Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet.
   • Spoon the sauce and peach slices over the chicken, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
7. Serve:
   • Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter.
   • Spoon the peach sauce over the top.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, such as chopped parsley or cilantro.
8. Accompaniments:
   • Serve the Spicy Peach Chicken with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of roasted vegetables to complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the dish.

Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Spicy Peach Chicken!