Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The unique combination of guava and chicken creates an unforgettable dish that’s both vibrant and flavorful. The guava glaze adds a layer of sweetness that’s beautifully complemented by the savory spices and seasoning of the chicken. It’s an easy recipe to make but has the power to impress your guests with its exotic and complex flavors. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a summer BBQ, this Guava Chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup guava paste or guava jelly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the guava glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine the guava paste (or jelly), soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir over medium heat until the paste dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season the chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or cumin for extra flavor.
- Cook the chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and cooked through, or an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes on each side.
- Glaze the chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, brush the guava glaze generously over the top of the chicken. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes in the pan to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly. If grilling, you can baste the chicken with the glaze during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the pan or grill and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Add some heat: If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or even some chopped fresh jalapeños to the guava glaze.
- Grilled Version: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken and baste it with the guava glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Guava Chicken with Vegetables: Serve this chicken with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
- Alternative Proteins: You can substitute chicken with pork chops or shrimp for a different twist on this sweet and savory dish.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet with a little water to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use guava juice instead of guava paste or jelly?
Guava juice can be used, but it’s much thinner and less sweet than guava paste or jelly. If using juice, consider adding a bit of sugar or honey to thicken and sweeten the glaze.
Can I make the guava glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the guava glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before using.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to cook it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I serve with Guava Chicken?
Guava Chicken pairs well with rice (white, brown, or coconut rice), mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, try incorporating fresh chilies into the guava glaze or drizzle some hot sauce on top before serving.
Can I cook this dish in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, brushing with the guava glaze during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Can I use guava jam instead of jelly or paste?
Yes, guava jam can work well as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the sweetness depending on your preference.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly with this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this recipe with boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great option and cook more quickly than breasts. You can follow the same cooking method for thighs.
Conclusion
Guava Chicken is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and tropical flavors that will elevate your dinner to new heights. The guava glaze adds a unique touch, balancing the richness of the chicken with its vibrant sweetness. Whether served with a side of rice or fresh veggies, this dish is sure to impress with its easy preparation and unforgettable taste. Perfect for any occasion, Guava Chicken is a tropical twist on a classic meal!
PrintGuava Chicken
Guava Chicken combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, featuring tender chicken coated in a rich guava glaze. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings a tropical twist to your dinner table, perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Seared, Grilled
- Cuisine: Tropical, Caribbean
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup guava paste or guava jelly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Guava Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine guava paste (or jelly), soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir over medium heat until the paste dissolves and the sauce becomes smooth. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Optionally, add a pinch of garlic powder or cumin for extra flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and cooked through, or until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Alternatively, grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes on each side.
- Glaze the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, brush the guava glaze generously over the top. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes in the pan to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly. If grilling, baste the chicken with the glaze during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Remove the chicken and transfer it to a plate. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for added freshness.
Notes
- For extra heat, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the guava glaze.
- Grill the chicken for a smoky flavor and baste with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
