This Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a bright and tasty dish! Juicy grilled peaches, tender chicken, and fresh greens come together for a perfect summer meal.
Honestly, who knew peaches could be so good on a salad? 🥗 I love how simple this is to make—just grill, toss, and enjoy. Perfect for lazy dinners or picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is best for grilling. If you prefer a different protein, try grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Leftover rotisserie chicken works well in a pinch!
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring a sweet flavor to the salad. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or even plums can be a good substitute. Just make sure they’re ripe and sweet!
Greens: Baby spinach or mixed greens are perfect for this salad. If you want a heartier texture, use kale or arugula instead. Both add a nice bite and work well with the grilled flavors.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. You can swap it for goat cheese or blue cheese if you prefer. For dairy-free options, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Pecans: Pecans add a nice crunch! If you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives. Just make sure to toast them for extra flavor!
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few simple tips make it easier! First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps to sear the chicken, keeping it juicy.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling.
- Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing—this helps keep it juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Peaches?
Grilling peaches is easy and enhances their natural sweetness. Start by preheating the grill as you prepare the chicken. Brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill for about 3-5 minutes.
- Look for nice grill marks and slight softening of the fruit.
- Let them cool before slicing; this makes handling easier!
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation for this delicious salad takes about 15 minutes, with grilling taking around 10-15 minutes. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes brings the total to about 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked through and the juices run clear. Once it’s done, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
2. Grill the Peaches:
Next, brush the cut sides of the peach halves with olive oil. Place the peaches cut side down on the grill and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for lovely grill marks and slightly softened fruit. Once grilled, take them off the grill and let them cool a bit before slicing each half into wedges.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
For the dressing, grab a small bowl or jar and whisk together the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s all well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large serving bowl (or individual plates if you prefer), layer the fresh baby spinach or mixed greens at the bottom. Then, slice the rested grilled chicken into strips and add it on top of the greens. Next, arrange the grilled peach wedges, sprinkle the blueberries, add the thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans all over the salad.
5. Dress the Salad:
Just before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad. You can toss everything gently if you like it blended, or leave it as is for a lovely presentation showcasing the colorful ingredients.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your fresh, vibrant salad right away, and relish the delightful combination of smoky grilled peaches, savory chicken, sweet blueberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy feta. It’s a burst of flavor perfect for a warm day!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Instead?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before grilling. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat dry before seasoning!
How Do I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein. You can also add more veggies like cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocado to enhance the flavors and texture.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken and peaches ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just assemble the salad and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to avoid soggy greens. Just give it a gentle toss before enjoying again!
