This Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a yummy mix of juicy grilled chicken and sweet peaches, all over a bed of fresh greens. It’s colorful and packed with flavor!
I love how this salad feels light yet filling. Plus, grilling the peaches makes them extra sweet! It’s a perfect dish for summer days or any time you want something fresh.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you want a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works well too and saves time!
Peaches: Ripe peaches really elevate this salad. If peaches aren’t in season, try using nectarines or even grilled pineapple for a different but tasty twist.
Greens: Fresh spinach gives a nice crunch, but mixed greens or arugula are great substitutes for a peppery flavor. Make it your own!
Nuts: Pecans add a lovely crunch, but walnuts or even sunflower seeds can substitute. Toasting them lightly enhances their flavor!
Cheese: Feta is my favorite for its tanginess. Goat cheese can also be a creamy alternative, adding a different flavor profile.
How Do You Grill Chicken and Peaches Perfectly?
Grilling can be easy with the right technique. Start with a medium-high heat for the grill, and ensure you preheat it properly. This helps prevent sticking. Season your chicken well with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For peaches, grill cut-side down for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This brings out their sweetness!
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make 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 spinach and/or mixed greens
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to grill the chicken and peaches. The perfect meal that is ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill nice and hot by preheating it to medium-high heat. This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Brush the chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season them generously with salt and pepper. This helps enhance the flavor while grilling.
3. Prep the Peaches:
Take your peach halves and brush them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will make them sweet and caramelized once grilled.
4. Grill It All:
Place both the chicken and peach halves onto the grill. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the juices run clear. For the peaches, grill cut-side down for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly softened and show nice grill marks. Once grilled, set the chicken aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Slice the Chicken:
After the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips. This step keeps the chicken juicy and easy to mix into the salad.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach or mixed greens, red onion, blueberries, pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. Add a burst of color and flavor to your mix!
7. Add Grilled Peaches:
Slice up the grilled peaches into wedges and toss them into your salad bowl.
8. Top with Chicken:
Finally, add those beautifully sliced grilled chicken strips right on top of the salad.
9. Make the Dressing:
In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and a bit of salt and pepper. Combine until smooth and all components are blended well.
10. Drizzle and Toss:
Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine the flavors.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious and fresh grilled peach chicken salad immediately. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors mingling in every bite!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t available, you can substitute them with nectarines, apricots, or even grilled pineapple for a fun twist. Each fruit will add its unique flavor to the salad!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most of the ingredients in advance! Grill the chicken and peaches, and store them in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing in a separate container to prevent the salad from getting soggy. Simply toss everything together before eating!
What’s a Good Alternative for the Dressing?
If you’re short on time or ingredients, a simple store-bought vinaigrette can work wonderfully. Look for one that complements the salad’s flavors, like a balsamic or honey mustard dressing!
