This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy grilled chicken, sweet peaches, and fresh greens. It’s perfect for sunny days when you want something light and refreshing!
I love how the sweet peaches pair with the savory chicken. It’s like a summer party in my mouth! 😄 Plus, it’s quick to make, so you can whip it up in no time for lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Peaches: Ripe peaches are essential for a sweet, juicy flavor. If peaches are out of season, try nectarines or plums for a similar sweetness.
Salad Greens: Fresh spinach and mixed greens add texture and color. You can replace these with kale or arugula if you prefer a stronger taste. Just make sure to massage the kale a bit if using it raw!
Balsamic Vinaigrette: This dressing ties the salad together with tangy flavor. If you’re out, you could use a simple mix of olive oil and lemon juice or even a store-bought Italian dressing.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy and salty touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan feta or omit it entirely for a lighter option.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following some key steps will help you get juicy, flavorful results. First, always preheat your grill. This creates nice grill marks and helps prevent sticking. Here’s how to grill chicken like a pro:
- Brush chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill on medium-high heat for 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness — it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it more succulent.
Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 5 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mixed salad greens
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, all in all, you can enjoy your delicious Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad in around 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure a nice sear on the chicken and peaches.
2. Grilling the Chicken:
While the grill heats up, lightly coat the chicken breasts with some olive oil. Sprinkle a bit of salt and pepper on both sides for taste. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they’re fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Grilling the Peaches:
While the chicken is resting, take the halved peaches and place them cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes until you see grill marks and they soften up just a little. Once done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly before slicing them into wedges.
4. Assembling the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the fresh spinach, mixed salad greens, juicy blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, grilled chicken, and grilled peach slices. Add the chopped walnuts for a nice crunch!
5. Dressing and Finishing Touches:
Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together gently to coat. Finally, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a creamy finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve immediately and relish the fresh, vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Salad?
You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before grilling! Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker thaw. Pat it dry before seasoning so it gets that perfect grill sear!
What If I Don’t Have Peaches Available?
No problem! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines or plums for a similar sweetness and texture. If you want a different flavor profile, try using grilled pineapple or mango instead, which will add a tropical twist to the salad!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to avoid soggy greens. When ready to enjoy, simply toss the salad with a splash more of balsamic vinaigrette!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep some ingredients in advance! Grill the chicken and peaches ahead, and chop the veggies. Assemble the salad without dressing and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just add the dressing and feta right before serving for the freshest taste!
