This Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a wonderful mix of juicy peaches, tender chicken, and fresh greens. It’s light, colorful, and perfect for those sunny days!
Who knew salad could be this fun? I love how the sweet peaches pair with the savory chicken. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner—just toss it all together and enjoy the yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness and grilling flavor. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or even apricots for a similar taste.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are easy to grill and slice. You can swap them for grilled shrimp, tofu, or leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Greens: Baby spinach works well, but feel free to mix in arugula for a peppery kick or kale for extra nutrients. You can also replace with any mixed greens you have on hand.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch. If allergies are a concern, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.
Feta Cheese: This adds a tangy flavor to the salad. Goat cheese or even a vegan feta will work well if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken for a Salad?
Grilling chicken can seem tricky, but here’s how to get it just right! The goal is tender, juicy meat which adds great flavor to your salad. Follow these steps:
- Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Prep your chicken by lightly brushing it with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it, then flip and grill another 6-7 minutes.
- Check doneness by cutting into the thickest part for clear juices. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy!
This method keeps your chicken moist and full of flavor, making it the perfect base for your salad!
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and grilling the chicken and peaches, with another 15 minutes to assemble and whip up the dressing. Just 5 minutes to enjoy this refreshing meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by heating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s warming up, lightly brush the peach halves and chicken breasts with olive oil. Sprinkle them with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes, or until you see nice grill marks. This caramelizes the sugars and enhances the peach flavor. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear. Once they’re done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing them into strips.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, apple cider (or balsamic) vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk well until everything is blended nicely. This dressing adds a delicious twist to your salad!
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach (or your favorite mixed greens), fresh blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, and toasted nuts—yum!
6. Add the Goodies:
Slice your grilled peaches into wedges and toss them into the salad bowl along with the sliced grilled chicken. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is amazing!
7. Dress and Toss:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss it all together. You want to make sure everything is well coated without smashing your delicious ingredients.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top for an extra tasty touch. Serve your salad immediately and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
This grilled peach chicken salad is a perfect summer dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Enjoy the freshness and the vibrant flavors!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer something different, try using nectarines, plums, or even grilled pineapple. Each will add a unique flavor to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with a plant-based protein like grilled tofu or chickpeas. You can also add more nuts or seeds for added protein!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make parts of the salad ahead of time! Grill the chicken and peaches, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just assemble the salad before serving to keep the greens fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid soggy greens. When ready to eat, give it a good toss and enjoy!
