Jalapeno Peach Chicken Skewers

Sweet peaches and punchy jalapenos play perfectly with juicy chicken to create these irresistible skewers that always steal the show at my summer gatherings. Air fryer or grill ready, this crowd-pleasing recipe brings together fruity, spicy, and savory flavors into an easy weeknight dinner or a memorable party dish.

I stumbled on this flavor combo when searching for ways to use up peak-season peaches and now it is a staple whenever friends come over for dinner. People always ask for the recipe and leftovers are a rare sight.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose fresh plump pieces for juiciest results
• Yellow peaches: go for just-ripe fruit that gives slightly for the best sweetness
• Jalapeno peppers: select firm glossy peppers without wrinkles for mild heat
• Kosher salt: brings out flavors and seasons the chicken well
• Black pepper: freshly cracked adds subtle bite
• Chili powder: a gentle earthy heat that balances fruitiness
• Extra virgin olive oil: coats for moisture and flavor plus keeps skewers from sticking
• Peach preserves: pick a good quality jar with lots of real fruit chunks
• Soy sauce: deepens the glaze with a savory note use reduced sodium if preferred
• Apple cider vinegar: livens up the glaze with brightness
• Dijon mustard: brings tang and a bit of sharpness
• Garlic: fresh minced works best for bold aromatic flavor
• Red pepper flakes: just a pinch kicks up the spice use more or less to suit your taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

In a large bowl combine your chicken cubes kosher salt black pepper chili powder and olive oil. Toss everything together so every piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate while you prep the rest. This helps the flavors settle into the meat.

Assemble the Skewers:

Thread your soaked wooden skewers alternating peach pieces chicken chunks and jalapeno. I like to start and end with fruit. This layering lets the juices mingle and keeps the chicken extra moist.

Preheat and Prep the Cooking Area:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush each assembled skewer lightly with olive oil before laying them in the air fryer basket. Give them some space so they air crisp instead of steaming.

Cooking in the Air Fryer:

Arrange skewers in a single layer. Cook for about eleven to twelve minutes. Halfway through turn the skewers for even browning. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before you pull them.

Make the Peach Glaze:

While the skewers cook start the glaze. Combine peach preserves a spoonful more olive oil soy sauce apple cider vinegar Dijon mustard minced garlic a little salt black pepper and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until the mixture comes together and warms through. The preserves should become pourable and glossy.

Glaze and Serve:

Once chicken is cooked brush each skewer all over with generous amounts of the hot peach glaze. Serve warm right away. The glaze clings to the charred chicken and fruit and is the secret to maximum flavor.

For Oven Baking or Grilling:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper if you go this route. Or fire up your grill for authentic smoky flavor.

I absolutely love the way fresh peaches become extra juicy and caramelized over high heat. There is something nostalgic about gathering everyone outside on a warm evening as the aroma drifts from the grill.

Storage Tips

Store leftover skewers tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat simply pop them back in the air fryer or oven at 350 degrees until warmed through. For longer storage remove the chicken and fruit from the sticks and freeze in a zip bag up to one month.

Ingredient Substitutions

No peaches in season Try nectarines or even chunks of pineapple for a fun tropical spin. If you want more heat substitute serrano chilies or use red bell pepper for a mild version. Boneless chicken thighs can be used for richer flavor and extra moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve skewers over buttery jasmine rice or on a platter with fresh greens and more grilled fruit. They make great handheld appetizers for summer parties or pile them onto salad bowls with extra glaze as a dressing.

Cultural Context

Fruit and chili combos are popular in Mexican and southern cuisines and for good reason. Grilled chicken skewers are a classic for outdoor fare worldwide and this version is a nod to the flavors of sun-soaked markets and family cookouts.

Seasonal Adaptations

In late summer swap in plums or apricots for a twist Add chunks of red onion or zucchini between the chicken for extra veggie power Fire up your grill to add a smoky flavor that works beautifully with the glaze

Success Stories

Every time I serve these at gatherings all ages dig in and someone always requests the recipe. They are the first to disappear at potlucks and have even made an appearance at office lunches where people are surprised by the sweet heat fusion.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze for later prep and thread all skewers as described. Lay in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid then transfer to a bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and cook straight from cold for quick meals.

These skewers deliver a lively sweet-spicy pop on summertime plates. Once you try them they might just become your new go-to for warm weather get-togethers.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts hold up well on skewers and cook quickly for a tender result.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Yes, nectarines or pineapple add similar sweetness and can be used in place of peaches.

→ Is this dish spicy?

It has a gentle kick from jalapenos and red pepper flakes, but the sweetness of peach balances the heat.

→ Can I grill instead of air fry?

Absolutely—grilling imparts a smoky char that complements the sweet and spicy elements beautifully.

→ How do I prevent the skewers from sticking?

Brush the skewers with olive oil before cooking, and ensure they are well soaked if using wooden skewers.