This Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a colorful and tasty dish! Grilled chicken and juicy peaches come together with fresh greens, making it perfect for a light meal.
I love how the sweet peaches mix so well with the savory chicken. It’s like summer on a plate! 🥗 Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to enjoy a lovely salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this salad. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Fresh ripe peaches bring sweetness and a nice texture. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or even grilled apples as a tasty replacement!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is easy to find and adds a lovely green base. You can also mix in kale or arugula for a different taste and nutrition boost.
Feta Cheese: I enjoy crumbled feta here, but goat cheese or blue cheese can switch up the flavor profile. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with lemon juice.
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a delicious crunch. You could swap them for walnuts or almonds if you prefer different nuts or need a nut-free option altogether.
How Do I Grill Chicken and Peaches Perfectly?
Getting the chicken and peaches just right on the grill can be a bit tricky, but here’s how to do it! Make sure your grill is preheated as this helps with even cooking.
- Brush both chicken and peach halves with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- For peaches, grill for about 3-4 minutes per side. They should be soft and slightly caramelized. You want those lovely grill marks!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare, including 15 minutes to grill the chicken and peaches. It’s quick and perfect for a refreshing meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. This will ensure your chicken and peaches cook evenly and get those delicious grill marks!
2. Prepare Chicken and Peaches:
Brush the chicken breasts and peach halves with olive oil, and season them generously with salt and pepper. This step adds flavor and helps them to sear beautifully on the grill.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) so they’re fully cooked. Once done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
4. Grill the Peaches:
Now, put the peach halves on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side. You’re looking for nice grill marks and peaches that are slightly softened. Once grilled, cut them into slices.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or on individual serving plates, arrange the fresh spinach leaves. On top of the spinach, layer the grilled chicken slices, grilled peach slices, fresh blueberries, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped pecans.
7. Add the Dressing:
Before serving, drizzle the dressing over your salad. Toss lightly to combine all the flavors, but be gentle to keep the salad looking beautiful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your fresh, flavorful Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad. Perfect for any meal or as a light summer dish!
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for this salad, but if you only have frozen chicken available, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method (in a sealed bag) before grilling. Pat it dry to ensure it grills properly!
Can I Replace the Peaches with Other Fruits?
Absolutely! If peaches are out of season or you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute them with nectarines, apples, or even grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The salad may get a bit soggy over time, so it’s best to keep the components separate if you plan to store them.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and peaches a few hours before serving. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh, and add the dressing right before you toss it all together for the best flavor!
