This colorful salad features juicy grilled peaches paired with tender chicken, fresh greens, and a tasty dressing. It’s a sweet and savory feast for your taste buds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring sweetness and juiciness to the salad. If you can’t find fresh peaches, try nectarines or even canned peaches (drained). Grilling will enhance their flavor, but fresh is always best when in season!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and pair well with the salad. You can use grilled or rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is a great leafy base for the salad. You can switch to arugula for a peppery kick or romaine for a crunchy texture. If you prefer a heartier option, kale works too—just massage it a little to soften.
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a burst of flavor and color. If those aren’t available, you can use strawberries, raspberries, or even dried cranberries for a different twist.
How do I Grill Peaches Without Burning Them?
Grilling peaches can be tricky, but it’s worth it for the flavor! Make sure to keep an eye on them because they only need a few minutes to caramelize. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cut peaches in half, remove the pit, and brush cut sides with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill on medium-high heat, cut side down, for about 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear.
- Don’t walk away—check them! Turn them over carefully if you want to warm the whole peach.
They’re done when they’re slightly soft but not mushy. Happy grilling!
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 pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling chicken and peaches)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 20 minutes grilling the chicken and peaches. Once everything is tossed together, it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken and peaches get nice grill marks and cook evenly!
2. Prepare the Chicken and Peaches:
Brush the chicken breasts and peach halves with olive oil, making sure they’re well-coated. Season the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper for extra flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and the juices run clear. When done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
4. Grill the Peaches:
Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they become slightly soft. Remove from the grill and slice them into wedges.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach, blueberries, sliced red onion, chopped pecans, and crumbled feta cheese. This mix is packed with flavors and textures!
6. Add Grilled Ingredients:
Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken and the grilled peach wedges. They’ll add a wonderful sweetness to the mix!
7. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
8. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together to combine all the flavors. Be careful not to squish the peaches!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
This salad is best enjoyed fresh! Serve it immediately and savor the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors in each delicious bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Grilled Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes, you can absolutely use grilled frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and warmed before slicing. To quickly thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave on a defrost setting.
What If I Can’t Find Ripe Peaches?
No worries! If ripe peaches aren’t available, you can substitute with nectarines or even canned peaches (just be sure to drain and pat them dry). Just remember to follow the same grilling steps for the best flavor!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep many of the components ahead of time! Grill the chicken and peaches, and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble the salad just before serving for the freshest taste!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. Consume leftovers within 2 days for the best quality!
