This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a summer delight! It’s packed with juicy grilled peaches, tender chicken, and fresh greens, making it super refreshing and tasty.
I love how the sweet peaches mix with the savory chicken. It’s a perfect combo! 🥗 Plus, it’s easy to whip up for a light lunch or a picnic. Just grill, toss, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you prefer something leaner, turkey cutlets work well too. For a vegetarian option, try grilled tofu or chickpeas. They both provide great protein and will soak up flavor!
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and juiciness. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can be a great substitute. They grill beautifully too! You can try canned peaches if fresh options are limited—just make sure to drain them.
Spinach & Salad Greens: Fresh spinach delivers nutrients and a nice crunch. When it’s unavailable, kale or arugula can give a slightly different yet tasty bite. Don’t hesitate to mix different greens for added texture!
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch. If you’re allergic or want a different flavor, pecans or almonds are wonderful substitutes. You could also use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy creaminess. If you need a dairy-free choice, try crumbled tofu with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or use goat cheese for a subtle twist that complements the salad beautifully.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but there’s a simple way to ensure it’s juicy and cooked perfectly. The key is to get your grill preheated and to season well.
- Preheat: Heat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear!
- Season: Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This helps create a nice crust.
- Timing: Grill for 6-7 minutes each side. Use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) means it’s done!
- Rest: After grilling, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fresh and delicious salad will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for grilling, so around 30 minutes in total. You’ll love how quickly you can whip this up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets those delicious grill marks.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. This not only adds flavor but keeps the chicken juicy. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the salad.
3. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is resting, take the halved peaches and brush the insides with a little olive oil. Place them cut-side down on the grill and grill for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to have nice grill marks and soften slightly, which brings out their sweetness!
4. Toss the Greens:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, mixed salad greens, blueberries, red onion, and chopped walnuts. The combination of flavors and textures in this salad will be amazing!
5. Add Chicken and Peaches:
Slice the grilled chicken into strips and add to the salad mix. Then, place the grilled peach halves on top. They will add a wonderful sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
6. Finish with Feta and Dressing:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad. Finally, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette dressing over everything and toss gently to combine. Be careful not to squish the peaches!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is ready! Serve it immediately and enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors on your plate. It’s the perfect meal for a warm day!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before grilling. Thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge or use the sealed bag in cold water method for quicker results. Once thawed, pat it dry and follow the recipe as directed.
What If I Don’t Have Peaches?
No problem! You can substitute peaches with nectarines or even plums for a similar sweet and juicy flavor. Just make sure to cut them in half and remove the pits before grilling!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
For any leftovers, store the salad components separately in airtight containers. The salad greens and chicken can last in the fridge for about 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, toss them together for a fresh taste!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this salad with additional ingredients like avocado, grilled corn, or even a different type of cheese such as goat cheese. Just remember to adjust the dressing accordingly if you add more ingredients!
