This grilled peach chicken salad is a lovely mix of juicy peaches, grilled chicken, and fresh greens. It’s sweet, savory, and super easy to make for a light meal!
I love how the warm peaches hug the chicken, making every bite a little party in your mouth! Plus, it’s perfect for a sunny day when you want to eat something fresh. 🍑🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches bring sweetness and let us savor summer. If they’re out of season, replace them with nectarines or even grilled pineapple, which works surprisingly well!
Chicken: Boneless chicken breasts are the best choice for quick grilling. You can use thighs for a juicier option, or even replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Mixed Greens: Fresh greens are essential for a crunchy base. Spinach, arugula, or even kale are great swaps depending on what you have in your fridge!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang. If you want to keep it dairy-free, try crumbled tofu or a vegan feta made from nuts.
How Do I Perfectly Grill Peaches?
Grilling peaches might seem tricky, but it’s simple! The key is to choose ripe peaches and handle them gently. Follow these steps for great results:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Brush the peaches lightly with olive oil to avoid sticking, and cut them in half, removing the pit.
- Place the halves cut-side down on the grill and let them cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them. This will create those nice marks.
- Once soft, take them off the grill and let them cool slightly before adding to your salad.
Enjoy this delicious addition to your meal!
Easy Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh mixed greens or spinach
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes of prep and 10-15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should set aside around 30 minutes to whip up this tasty meal, including grilling the chicken and peaches.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Grill Ready!
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your peaches and chicken get that lovely grilled flavor!
2. Grill Those Peaches!
Brush the peach halves with a little olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill. Place the peaches cut side down on the grill and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. You want nice grill marks and slightly softened peaches. Once done, take them off the grill and set aside.
3. Season the Chicken!
While the peaches are grilling, season your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor. It’s simple but makes all the difference!
4. Grill the Chicken!
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they’re cooked through and the juices run clear. This should give you tender, juicy chicken. Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
5. Make the Dressing!
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. This gives your salad a delightful zing that complements the sweetness of the peaches perfectly!
6. Assemble the Salad!
In a large salad bowl or on a plate, arrange the fresh mixed greens or spinach as the base. Now, it’s time to layer your ingredients!
7. Add the Toppings!
Top your greens with the grilled peach halves (feel free to slice them if you like), sliced chicken breast, fresh blueberries, sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted nuts for a delightful crunch!
8. Drizzle and Serve!
Finally, drizzle the dressing over your beautiful salad just before serving. Toss gently if you want everything mixed. Enjoy it fresh and colorful!
9. Enjoy Your Meal!
This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, combining the smoky sweetness of grilled fruit with savory chicken and tangy cheese. Dig in and enjoy your delightful creation!
Can I Use Frozen Peaches for This Salad?
While fresh peaches give the best flavor, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before grilling to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you want to keep it vegetarian or simply don’t have chicken on hand, try using grilled tofu or chickpeas instead. Both are great sources of protein and will complement the salad nicely!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can grill the chicken and peaches a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and then assemble your salad fresh just before serving. This helps save time while keeping everything delicious!
