Spicy Peach Pecan Salsa Chicken

Spicy Peach and Pecan Salsa Chicken is my answer whenever I need something quick for dinner and still crave big seasonal flavors. This summery dish brings together juicy peaches and crunchy pecans in a zesty salsa you will want to put on everything. The chicken bakes perfectly tender under a smoky spice rub and gets showered with colorful, tangy salsa that instantly lifts your mood. It is the kind of meal that tastes like sunshine and makes you linger at the table just a little longer.

When I first tried this combo, I was amazed by how every bite feels bright and a little indulgent. My friends asked for the salsa recipe and now it is our staple every peach season.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: these are lean and juicy when not overcooked so seek out air chilled or fresh for best results
• Olive oil: brings richness and helps the spices cling to the chicken pick a good extra virgin oil for clean flavor
• Smoked paprika: adds mellow heat and depth Spanish or Hungarian are both great
• Ground cumin: delivers earthy warmth so buy whole seeds and grind fresh if you can
• Salt: balances all the elements ensure your kosher or sea salt is fresh
• Black pepper: brings subtle spice freshly cracked for brightest flavor
• Ripe peaches: choose freestone varieties for easy slicing and sweet fragrance
• Tomato: makes the salsa juicy and adds color go for vine ripened or heirloom when possible
• Red onion: offers crunch and a bite choose one with tight skin and no sprouting
• Jalapeño: provides heat you control the kick by removing or leaving seeds
• Pecans: give nutty flavor and crunch toast them lightly for max aroma
• Fresh cilantro: punches up herbal brightness
• Lime juice: makes everything sing pick one that feels heavy for its size
• Honey: softly balances the acidity use local if available for roundness

Instructions

Prep and Preheat:

Set the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to avoid sticking and ensure easy cleanup

Mix the Spice Rub:

In a small bowl combine olive oil smoked paprika cumin salt and black pepper stir until fully blended the mixture should smell smoky and rich

Season the Chicken:

Rub the spice mix evenly all over the chicken breasts pressing gently to coat every surface aim for full coverage so each bite is flavorful

Bake the Chicken:

Arrange the chicken on the lined sheet spacing each piece apart bake in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes until the juices run clear and internal temp hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit start checking at the 20 minute mark to avoid dryness

Prepare the Salsa:

In a medium bowl gently mix diced peaches tomato red onion jalapeño toasted pecans cilantro lime juice honey and salt use a spoon to fold them together just until combined the salsa should look glossy and colorful

Rest and Serve:

Once the chicken is baked let it rest for 5 minutes to keep juices inside slice it across the grain for the most tender bites arrange on plates and top each piece generously with peach pecan salsa

Save Pin

I always use orchard peaches when I find them just ripe and never skip toasting pecans since their aroma draws everyone to the kitchen. My kids now request this salsa on grilled fish too and we make it for backyard dinners with neighbors.

Storage Tips

This recipe stores well in airtight containers for up to three days in the fridge. Keep the salsa and chicken separate for best texture. You can gently reheat the chicken in a low oven or microwave and spoon fresh salsa just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Nectarines are a great swap if peaches are not available. Chopped walnuts can stand in for pecans though you lose a bit of sweetness. Try parsley instead of cilantro for a milder herbal note. For extra heat toss in hot sauce or leave jalapeño seeds intact.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cilantro rice or grilled corn for a full summer dinner. This chicken is also fantastic sliced cold over greens for a lunch salad. You can pile leftover salsa onto tacos or alongside grilled shrimp.

Save Pin

This meal brings people together with bursts of color and flavor in every bite. Try it once and you will crave peach salsa all summer long.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use nectarines instead of peaches?

Yes, nectarines offer a similar sweetness and texture, making them a great substitute for peaches in the salsa.

→ How do I toast pecans for this dish?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, then cool and chop for the salsa.

→ Is this gluten-free?

All listed ingredients are gluten-free, but it's important to check product labels for possible cross-contamination.

→ What side dishes pair well?

Cilantro rice, grilled corn, or a simple green salad complement the spicy peach chicken beautifully.

→ How can I add more heat?

Leave jalapeño seeds in the salsa or add a dash of hot sauce for extra spiciness.

→ What tools will I need?

You will need a baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowls, a chef's knife, and a cutting board.