Grilled Chicken Thighs with Peach and Cherry Salsa: A Summertime Delight
Summer is the perfect time for grilling, and what better way to enjoy the season’s bounty than with juicy grilled chicken thighs topped with a vibrant peach and cherry salsa? This recipe combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the sweet and tangy taste of fresh fruit, creating a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
## Why Chicken Thighs?
While chicken breasts often get all the attention, chicken thighs are a true grilling champion. They are more forgiving than chicken breasts because of their higher fat content, which helps them stay moist and juicy on the grill. Thighs also have a richer, more intense flavor compared to chicken breasts, making them a perfect match for the sweet and fruity salsa.
## The Star of the Show: Peach and Cherry Salsa
The peach and cherry salsa is what truly elevates this dish. The sweetness of the peaches and cherries is balanced by the tang of lime juice and the heat of jalapeno, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint add a refreshing touch, making this salsa the perfect complement to grilled chicken.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start grilling, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the chicken and the salsa:
**For the Chicken:**
* 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For the Peach and Cherry Salsa:**
* 2 ripe peaches, pitted and diced
* 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
* 1/2 red onion, finely diced
* 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
* 2 tablespoons lime juice
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create this summertime masterpiece:
**1. Prepare the Chicken:**
* In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
* Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
**2. Make the Peach and Cherry Salsa:**
* While the chicken is marinating, prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced peaches, halved cherries, diced red onion, minced jalapeno (if using), chopped cilantro, and chopped mint.
* In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
* Pour the lime juice mixture over the fruit and herb mixture. Gently toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld.
**3. Preheat the Grill:**
* Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F).
* Clean the grill grates with a wire brush and lightly oil them to prevent the chicken from sticking.
**4. Grill the Chicken:**
* Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and discard the marinade.
* Place the chicken thighs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.
* Avoid overcrowding the grill. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to maintain even heat distribution.
* Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as this can make it dry.
**5. Rest and Serve:**
* Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* Spoon the peach and cherry salsa over the grilled chicken thighs. Garnish with extra cilantro or mint, if desired.
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for Grilling Perfect Chicken Thighs
* **Don’t Skip the Marinade:** Marinating the chicken thighs not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** This is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature without overcooking it.
* **Preheat the Grill Properly:** A well-preheated grill will help to sear the chicken and prevent it from sticking.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Grill:** Overcrowding the grill can lower the temperature and result in unevenly cooked chicken.
* **Let the Chicken Rest:** Resting the chicken after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Other Fruits:** Feel free to experiment with other fruits in the salsa. Nectarines, plums, or mangoes would all be delicious additions.
* **Spicy Salsa:** If you like things spicy, add more jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the salsa.
* **Different Herbs:** Try using basil or parsley instead of cilantro and mint.
* **Glaze Option**: Brush chicken with a balsamic glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and tangy finish.
* **Grilled Peaches:** For an extra layer of grilled flavor, grill the peach halves cut-side down for a few minutes before dicing them for the salsa.
* **Spice Rub:** Instead of a marinade, use a dry rub of your favorite spices like chili powder, cumin, and brown sugar.
* **Bone-in Thighs:** While the recipe calls for boneless, skinless thighs, you can use bone-in, skin-on thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Chicken Breasts**: If you really prefer chicken breasts, you can use them instead of the thighs, but remember to watch them closely, as they tend to dry out more quickly.
## Serving Suggestions
This grilled chicken with peach and cherry salsa is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob are all great choices.
* **Quinoa or Rice:** These grains make a hearty and healthy side dish.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to the chicken.
* **Pasta Salad:** A cold pasta salad with pesto or a creamy dressing is another great option.
* **Cornbread:** Fluffy cornbread adds a touch of Southern comfort to the meal.
## Make-Ahead Tips
* The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance.
* The peach and cherry salsa can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 30-35g
* Fat: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
## Perfect for any occasion
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply looking for a delicious and easy weeknight meal, this Grilled Chicken Thighs with Peach and Cherry Salsa recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and sweet and tangy salsa is a flavor explosion that you won’t be able to resist. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer!
## Storage tips
Leftover grilled chicken and salsa can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave before serving. The salsa is best served cold.
## Final Thoughts
This recipe is a testament to the simple elegance of combining fresh, seasonal ingredients. The sweetness of the peaches and cherries, the subtle heat of the jalapeño, and the smoky char of the grilled chicken thighs create a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this dish is sure to become a summertime favorite.
Enjoy grilling, and happy cooking!