Crispy Chicken with Roasted Peaches (Gluten-Free)

Looking for a dish that combines crispy, savory chicken with the sweetness of roasted peaches? This Crispy Chicken with Roasted Peaches is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Juicy chicken breasts are breaded and fried to perfection, while fresh peaches are roasted with balsamic to bring out their natural sweetness. Served with a simple arugula salad, this gluten-free dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory balance: The caramelized sweetness of the peaches pairs beautifully with the crispy, savory chicken.
• Easy and quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in under 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Gluten-free: Enjoy this crispy chicken without worrying about gluten, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
• Summer flavors: Fresh peaches and arugula give this dish a bright, summery feel, but it’s delicious any time of the year.

Ingredients for Crispy Chicken with Roasted Peaches

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup gluten-free flour
• 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Avocado oil, for frying
• 2 peaches, sliced
• 1.5 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups arugula
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a shallow dish, mix the gluten-free flour, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Set up a breading station with the seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Roast the Peaches

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the peach slices in the mixture, reserving the remaining liquid. Arrange the peaches on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until caramelized.

Step 5: Toss the Arugula

Toss the arugula in the reserved balsamic mixture to coat evenly.

Step 6: Serve

On each plate, arrange the arugula as a base, top with the roasted peaches, and serve the crispy chicken alongside.

Tips for Success

• Perfect Crispiness: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to the pan. It should sizzle immediately when you add the chicken, ensuring a crispy coating without absorbing too much oil.
• Caramelized Peaches: Flip the peaches halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization without burning.
• Substitute Greens: If you don’t have arugula, baby spinach or mixed greens will work well for this dish.

Variations

• Add Heat: For a spicy twist, sprinkle some red pepper flakes onto the chicken or mix them into the flour coating. Or, drizzle the chicken with hot honey after cooking.
• Swap Fruits: Nectarines or plums can be used instead of peaches for a different flavor profile.
• Different Greens: Substitute baby spinach or kale for the arugula if you prefer different greens in your salad.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to retain its crispiness. The roasted peaches are best eaten fresh but can be stored separately and reheated gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and peaches in advance. Just store the components separately and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with simple sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to round out the meal.

Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, if you’re not gluten-free, feel free to use regular flour and regular breadcrumbs in place of gluten-free versions I have used.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chicken with Roasted Peaches is a must-try recipe if you love the combination of savory and sweet flavors. The crispiness of the chicken paired with juicy, roasted peaches makes for an unforgettable meal that’s both easy and impressive. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

If you try this recipe, I’d love if you’d let me know how you liked it by leaving a rating and comment below!