This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a vibrant mix of juicy grilled peaches, tender chicken, and fresh greens. It’s a treat for both your eyes and taste buds!
The sweet peaches add a nice twist to this salad, making it perfect for summer days. I love tossing on some nuts for that crunchy surprise—it makes every bite fun! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are sweet and juicy, perfect for grilling. If you can’t find them, use nectarines or even plums for a similar taste. Just make sure they’re ripe for the best flavor!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. You can replace them with chicken thighs for a juicier bite or use firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a great base and adds nutrition. You could swap it for mixed greens or arugula if you prefer a peppery taste.
Goat Cheese: I love goat cheese for its creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try feta or blue cheese for an added tang. Dairy-free cheese options are available for those with lactose intolerance.
Walnuts: They add a nice crunch. If you’re allergic, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds also offer a good texture without the nuts.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with some easy steps, you’ll get juicy results each time. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is cooked just right:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to get those grill marks.
- Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season with salt and pepper – simple, but effective!
- Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This makes sure it stays juicy when you slice it.
How to Make Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 5 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing salad will take about 25-30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on grilling the chicken and peaches, and about 15-20 minutes putting everything together. Perfect for a quick yet delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help to get those beautiful grill marks on your chicken and peaches!
2. Grill the Chicken:
Get your chicken breasts ready by lightly brushing them with olive oil and sprinkling some salt and pepper on both sides. Place them on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be cooked through and nicely marked. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Now, place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. They only need about 3-4 minutes until they have those lovely grill marks and are slightly softened. Once grilled, take them off the grill and set aside to cool a bit.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, toss together the fresh spinach, grilled peaches (you can slice them if you prefer), blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped walnuts. This colorful mix will make your salad vibrant and delicious!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle this wonderful dressing over your salad and toss gently to combine everything.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Top your beautiful salad with the sliced grilled chicken. If you like, add some fresh basil leaves on top for a lovely finishing touch. Serve right away and enjoy this delightful Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other fruits like nectarines, plums, or even grilled pineapple for a tropical twist. Just keep the grilling time the same to get those tasty caramelized marks.
How Do I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
To prep this salad in advance, grill the chicken and peaches and let them cool before storing them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the spinach fresh and crisp.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Note that the spinach may wilt after a day, so it’s best eaten within 1-2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.
Can I Substitute the Cheese?
Yes, you can easily swap out goat cheese for feta cheese or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter option. If you want a creamier texture, try using avocado instead!
