Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers Recipe
If you’re searching for the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a touch of smoky, you have to try these Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers. This recipe is a celebration of summer flavors: juicy grilled chicken, caramelized peaches, and tender chunks of red onion, all marinated in a punchy, aromatic blend. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner, Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers will take your taste buds on a sunny vacation you’ll never forget.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish shines with a handful of uncomplicated ingredients that let each flavor stand out and mingle together beautifully. Every single component plays a role, whether it’s adding tenderness, a splash of color, or a hint of fresh garden taste.
- Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts keeps things lean and soaks up the marinade for tender results.
- Peaches: Ripe peaches bring a burst of juicy sweetness that caramelizes perfectly on the grill.
- Red onion: Adds color and a mild, sweet bite that balances the fruit and chicken.
- Olive oil: The base for the marinade, adding richness and helping everything grill up golden.
- Honey: Slightly sticky and sweet, it partners beautifully with the peaches and encourages caramelization.
- Balsamic vinegar: Lends a tangy complexity to the marinade, giving depth to every bite.
- Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and creaminess in the marinade for a rounded flavor.
- Fresh thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it’s the secret herb that lifts up both the chicken and the fruit.
- Salt & black pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning everything just right.
- Skewers: Soak wooden skewers if using to prevent burning, or opt for reusable metal ones for convenience.
How to Make Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers
Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and whisking together olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. This irresistible marinade is key to unlocking flavor in both the chicken and the fruit, giving your Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers their signature bold yet balanced taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Toss your chicken breast cubes in the marinade until each piece is well coated. Let the chicken soak up all those delicious flavors for at least 20–30 minutes. The longer you marinate, the more punch your skewers will have, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Prep the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, let them soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Chop up the peaches and red onion into chunky pieces, aiming for similar sizes so they grill evenly.
Step 4: Build the Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers
Alternately thread marinated chicken, peach chunks, and red onion onto each skewer. Mixing up the order ensures every bite is a lively combination of sweet, savory, and tangy.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Fire up your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place the skewers on the hot grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. You’re looking for nicely charred edges and chicken cooked through but still moist, while the peaches and onions should show fabulous grill marks.
Step 6: Serve Your Skewers
For the grand finale, slide your Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers onto a platter. Drizzle with extra balsamic glaze if you like, then serve hot—over a bed of rice, a fresh green salad, or with some toasted bread to catch all those tasty juices.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers
Garnishes
Sprinkle your skewers with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley for a lively green touch. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon uplifts the sweetness of the peaches while brightening up the whole plate. Crumbled feta or goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast if you want to go the extra mile.
Side Dishes
Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers are fantastic paired with fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous, which soak up every bit of flavor. For a lighter meal, serve over arugula or mixed greens tossed with a lemony vinaigrette. Grilled bread or warm pita completes the meal and guarantees no juice goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these skewers into a show-stopping party platter by arranging them atop a wooden board with dips like lemony yogurt or a sweet-tart salsa. Remove the chicken, peaches, and onions from the skewers and toss everything with mixed greens or farro for a hearty, colorful salad. Or pile them onto crusty bread and serve as open-faced sandwiches for lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers left, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Separate the skewers from the rice or salad to keep everything at its best.
Freezing
While the chicken itself freezes well (store in freezer-safe bags for up to two months), the peaches and onions are best enjoyed fresh. If you want to plan ahead, freeze just the marinated chicken cubes, then thaw and assemble the skewers with fresh fruit and onion right before grilling.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the skewers gently on a grill or in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, about 3–4 minutes. Alternatively, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken dry and the peaches mushy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are excellent for grilling as they stay extra moist and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may need a minute or two longer, depending on their size.
What if peaches aren’t in season?
You can easily swap in nectarines, apricots, or even plums for a different twist. In a pinch, well-drained canned peaches will also work, but fresh fruit delivers the best texture and charred flavor.
Can these be made indoors without a grill?
Definitely! Use a grill pan on your stovetop for fantastic flavor, or even roast the assembled Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers on a baking sheet under the broiler for a slightly different but still delicious take.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F in the thickest part. Otherwise, make sure the juices run clear and there’s no more pink in the center. The peaches and onions should also be nicely charred and tender.
Can I make Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers ahead?
You can marinate the chicken a day ahead, then assemble and grill the skewers just before serving for the freshest taste and best texture. Leftovers are also tasty cold or gently reheated the next day.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know just how simple and vibrant Grilled Chicken & Peach Skewers can be, I hope you’ll give them a spot on your summer table. Gather your favorite people, fire up the grill, and savor every sweet, smoky bite!
