This bright and tasty salad combines juicy grilled peaches and tender chicken, all on a bed of fresh greens. It’s a perfect mix of sweet and savory that will make your taste buds dance!
Trust me, the grilled peaches are the star here! I love tossing in some nuts for crunch. It’s so easy; just grill, chop, and enjoy a bowl full of summer goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Choose ripe, juicy peaches for grilling. If peaches aren’t available, nectarines work well too! They have a similar sweetness and texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, but you can use grilled chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also an excellent time-saver!
Greens: Fresh spinach or mixed greens is perfect here. If you want a different flavor, try arugula for a peppery kick or kale for extra nutrients.
Dressing Components: Apple cider vinegar is my go-to for its tangy flavor, but white balsamic vinegar adds a nice sweetness. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Making a Mess?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but with a little guidance, you’ll get perfect results! Start by choosing ripe peaches so they grill well without falling apart.
- Brush the peach halves lightly with olive oil to help prevent sticking. Using a non-stick spray can also work!
- Place the peaches cut-side down on a preheated grill. The key is to grill them for just the right amount of time—about 3-4 minutes. This allows the sugars to caramelize without turning mushy.
- Use a spatula to gently lift them off the grill using their skin for leverage.
This way, you’ll achieve those beautiful grill marks and a lovely smoky flavor without a bunch of sticky mess!
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 spinach or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to grill the chicken and peaches. Overall, you’re looking at around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light summer dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by heating your outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot for the best grill marks and flavor!
2. Season and Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and lightly brush them with olive oil, then season well with salt and pepper. Place them on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once done, take them off the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice them into strips.
3. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, you can get your peaches ready! Brush the halved peaches with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place them on the grill cut-side down. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks and they start to soften. Remove from the grill and slice each peach half into wedges.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake well until everything is mixed and emulsified. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
5. Assemble the Salad:
On a large plate or in a bowl, lay down a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens. Top it with the grilled peach slices, grilled chicken strips, blueberries, red onion slices, chopped pecans, and crumbled goat cheese. It all looks beautiful together!
6. Dress and Serve:
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad. You can gently toss everything together if you like, or leave it in layers for a pretty presentation. Enjoy your delicious grilled peach chicken salad right away for the best flavor!
This salad is not only visually appealing but is also a wonderful blend of smoky grilled peaches, juicy chicken, and vibrant fresh ingredients—the perfect light meal for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Peaches Instead of Fresh?
While fresh peaches provide the best flavor and texture, you can use canned or frozen peaches if necessary. Just make sure to thaw frozen peaches and drain any excess liquid before grilling to avoid too much moisture. You won’t get the same grill marks, but they’ll still taste delicious!
What if I Don’t Have Goat Cheese or Feta?
No worries! You can substitute with any cheese you have on hand. Blue cheese, fresh mozzarella, or even shredded cheddar could work. The key is to use something that will complement the sweetness of the peaches.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad with more veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers. It’s an easy dish to adapt based on what you have in your fridge!
