This refreshing grilled peach chicken salad is a wonderful mix of juicy peaches and tender chicken. Tossed with greens and a zesty dressing, it’s perfect for warm days!
I love how the sweet peaches pair with savory chicken—it’s like a summer party in a bowl! 🥗 You can even enjoy it for lunch or dinner; it always hits the spot!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring sweetness and flavor. If peaches aren’t available, try nectarines or even mango for a tropical twist. I love how grilled fruit brightens the dish!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with. You can swap them for grilled turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both choices hold up well in the salad.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice crunch. You could also use kale or mixed salad greens if you prefer. Just make sure the greens are fresh and crisp for the best texture.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a tangy creaminess. If you’re a fan of other cheeses, try goat cheese or blue cheese for a stronger flavor, or skip cheese entirely for a dairy-free version.
Balsamic Vinaigrette: A store-bought vinaigrette is fine, but homemade is even better! To make your own, simply mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, a dash of honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
How Do I Grill Chicken Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tricky. The key is to avoid overcooking, which makes it dry. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with evenly sized chicken breasts so they cook at the same rate.
- Season the chicken well with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. The high heat creates a nice sear without drying them out.
- Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute for a moist result.
Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
- Optional garnish: fresh basil leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take around 20-25 minutes to prepare and grill the chicken and peaches. Once it’s all put together, you can enjoy a fresh and tasty meal right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure to brush it with a little olive oil to keep everything from sticking. A well-oiled grill is key to achieving those perfect grill marks!
2. Season and Grill the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for flavor. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until it’s fully cooked (make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F or 75°C). After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, take your peach halves and lightly brush them with olive oil. Place them cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until they’re beautifully caramelized and have nice grill marks. Once grilled, set them aside to cool slightly.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large serving bowl, toss together the fresh spinach, blueberries, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped walnuts. This colorful mix is packed with nutrition and flavor!
5. Add the Chicken and Peaches:
Now, add the grilled chicken strips and grilled peach halves to your salad mixture. It’s going to look fantastic and taste even better!
6. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything gently to combine. Make sure that every delicious piece is coated with the dressing for the best flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is ready to serve! Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this refreshing salad!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just remember to thaw the chicken completely before grilling. You can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight or quickly thawing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour. Once thawed, follow the same seasoning and grilling instructions!
What Other Fruits Can I Use in This Salad?
If peaches aren’t available, feel free to substitute with other stone fruits like plums or apricots. Berries such as strawberries or raspberries would also add a delicious twist to the salad!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. Just drizzle it on fresh when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the components ahead of time. Grill the chicken and peaches, then store them in the fridge. Assemble the salad without the dressing and keep it in the fridge for a few hours before serving. Just add the balsamic vinaigrette right before serving for the freshest taste!
