This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a refreshing treat! Juicy grilled chicken, sweet peaches, and crispy greens come together with a zesty dressing that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who thought salad could taste this good? The mix of smoky chicken and juicy peaches is like a summer party on your plate! 🍑🥗 I love it as a light dinner or a picnic favorite.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are key for sweetness and flavor. If they’re not in season, feel free to substitute with nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for a similar taste.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. You can swap them with chicken thighs for extra moisture or even use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a lovely green color and a nutritious boost. If you don’t have it, try arugula, mixed greens, or even kale. Just ensure you massage the kale a little to soften it!
Cheese: Goat cheese adds a creamy tang, but feta works nicely, too. If you’re vegan, consider using a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Walnuts: They provide a crunchy texture. You can switch to pecans, almonds, or pumpkin seeds based on what you have on hand or if there are nut allergies.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
The chicken can easily become dry if overcooked, so keep an eye on the grill time. Here’s how to make sure it’s juicy:
- Start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Season well and let it marinate briefly in olive oil and spices for added flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it hits 165°F (75°C), take it off the grill.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This Step helps juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Peaches?
Grilling peaches is simple but requires a little care to avoid them falling apart. Here’s what to do:
- Halve and pit the peaches, brushing the cut sides lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill them cut-side down for about 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks.
- Watch them closely! They can go from perfect to mushy quickly.
- Let them cool before adding to the salad; this keeps the salad fresh and crisp.
How to Make Ultimate 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
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing grilled peach chicken salad takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend some time grilling the chicken and peaches, then just a bit more for tossing everything together. It’s a quick and delicious option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This gives you a nice, hot surface to cook the chicken and peaches evenly.
2. Season and Grill the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little drizzle of olive oil. Place them on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken is cooking, take the peach halves and place them cut side down on the grill. Grill for around 4-5 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the peaches soften a bit. Once they’re grilled, take them off the grill and let them cool for a bit.
4. Prepare the Salad Mixture:
In a large bowl, add the fresh spinach, blueberries, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss everything together to combine these vibrant ingredients.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Now, slice the grilled chicken and peaches into bite-sized pieces and add them to your salad mixture. This will add lovely flavor and texture to the salad.
6. Add Cheese and Nuts:
Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese and chopped walnuts over the salad. This adds a creamy and crunchy element to your dish!
7. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Once mixed, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, garnish your salad with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Serve your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad immediately, and enjoy this colorful, tasty meal!
Can I Substitute Other Fruits for Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer something different, try using plums, nectarines, or even grilled apples for a similar sweet and tangy flavor. Just adjust the grilling time based on the fruit’s firmness.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the spinach from wilting. Simply toss the salad with the dressing right before serving for the best freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the individual components in advance! Grill the chicken and peaches and store them in the fridge. Mix the salad ingredients (spinach, blueberries, onion, cheese, and nuts) without the dressing and keep in a separate container. Combine them on the day you plan to serve for optimal taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Goat Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, feta is a great alternative! You can also use a creamy blue cheese for more flavor or even a dairy-free alternative if needed. Just crumble it over the salad when you’re ready to serve!
