This fresh and tasty grilled peach chicken salad is perfect for sunny days. Juicy peaches, tender chicken, and colorful greens come together for a delightful meal!
You’ll love how easy it is to throw together. I often make extra grilled peaches to snack on later—because let’s be honest, who doesn’t love sweet grilled fruit? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their convenience. If you’re looking for a low-fat option, turkey breast works well too. You can also use grilled chicken thighs for a juicier bite.
Peaches: Ripe peaches add a sweet touch, but if they’re out of season, use nectarines or even plums! Grilling brings out their sweetness, which I love. Just make sure they’re ripe to get the best flavor.
Greens: I prefer fresh spinach for its mild flavor, but mixed greens or arugula are great alternatives. If you want a hearty option, try kale—just massage it a bit to soften the edges.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch. For nut-free options, consider seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a similar effect and added nutrition.
How Do You Grill Chicken and Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! The key is to use medium-high heat and keep an eye on your food for even cooking.
- Brush chicken with oil and season with salt and pepper. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the juices run clear. To check for doneness, consider using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- For peaches, grill cut side down for 3-4 minutes per side. They’re done when they’re slightly soft but still hold their shape.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy. Happy grilling!
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups fresh spinach or mixed baby greens
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled peach chicken salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare. This includes around 10 minutes for prepping and grilling the chicken and peaches, as well as assembling the salad. It’s a quick and satisfying option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper. This helps add flavor and prevents sticking. Set them aside while you prepare the peaches.
2. Grill Chicken and Peaches:
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken and peach halves (cut side down) on the grill. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked, meaning the juices run clear. The peaches should be grilled for about 3-4 minutes per side until you see nice grill marks and they soften slightly. After grilling, remove the chicken and peaches from the grill. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Make the Dressing:
While everything is grilling, you can prepare the dressing! In a small bowl or a jar, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or balsamic), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. This dressing brings all the flavors together beautifully!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, arrange the fresh spinach or mixed baby greens as the base. Add the sliced grilled chicken, grilled peach slices, blueberries, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and the chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. It’s starting to look colorful and delicious!
5. Dress and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before you’re ready to serve. Toss gently if you like, or keep it layered for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing and flavorful salad!
This grilled peach chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of grilled peaches, savory chicken, and a zesty dressing creates a delightful harmony of flavors that you’ll love!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Can I Use Grilled Peaches That Are Overripe?
It’s best to use peaches that are ripe but not overly soft, as they can fall apart on the grill and won’t hold their shape in the salad. If you happen to have slightly overripe peaches, you can still use them, just be more gentle while handling them.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Breasts?
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs or even a plant-based protein like grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly before adding to your salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
For any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from getting soggy. Enjoy leftover salad within 2 days for the best freshness!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Consider adding a handful of herbs like basil or mint for an extra flavor kick! You can also sprinkle some chili flakes for a bit of heat or add quinoa for an extra texture and nutritional boost.
