Sweet and Spicy Chicken over Rice 🌶️🍚

This vibrant dish combines the heat of taco seasoning with the sweetness of peach preserves, making it a delightful meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The juicy chicken and flavorful salsa come together beautifully over a bed of rice, creating a satisfying and delicious experience. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal! 🥗✨

Ingredients

For the chicken

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 teaspoons taco seasoning
• 2 teaspoons oil (for frying)

For the sauce

• 11 ounces chunky salsa
• 1/2 cup peach preserves

For serving

• Cooked rice

Instructions

1. In a resealable bag, toss the chicken cubes with the taco seasoning until evenly coated.

   🥡 This method helps ensure that each piece of chicken is well seasoned. If you have time, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor even more!

2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and brown until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

   🔥 Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches. Browning the chicken creates a nice sear, adding depth to the flavor.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the chunky salsa and peach preserves. Add this mixture to the pan once the chicken is cooked.

4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2-5 minutes to meld the flavors.

   🍑 Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less peach preserves depending on your taste!

5. Serve the sweet and spicy chicken over the cooked rice.

   🍽️ For an extra kick, top with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cilantro!

Variations

• Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the salsa for more heat. 🌶️🔥
• Sweet and savory: Substitute peach preserves with mango or apricot jam for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with hearty vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or use plant-based protein for a lighter dish.
• Meal prep: Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week!

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this easy and flavorful recipe! 🎉