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Flavorful Grilled Jalapeño Peach Chicken Thighs

grilled jalapeño peach chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy chicken thighs marinated with a spicy jalapeño and peach blend, finished with a sticky honey glaze, perfect for summer BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • 2 medium ripe but firm peaches, sliced
  • 1 to 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw, local preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for marinade, regular for grilling brush)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste (kosher salt preferred)
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Stir in finely chopped jalapeños.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add chicken to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours.
  3. Slice peaches into 1/2-inch thick wedges. Mix honey with 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small bowl to create the honey glaze.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). Clean and oil grates lightly.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, brushing with honey glaze during the last 5 minutes to build a caramelized finish. Watch for flare-ups.
  6. Grill peach slices for 2 minutes per side until grill marks appear and peaches soften slightly.
  7. Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F internal temperature) or cut into thickest part to ensure juices run clear.
  8. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes off the heat. Arrange grilled peaches on plates, top with chicken, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating for crispy skin. Apply honey glaze only in the last 5 minutes to avoid burning. Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Grill peaches while chicken rests to keep everything hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, jalapeño chicken, peach chicken, summer BBQ, honey glaze, spicy chicken thighs, grilled peaches