This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy grilled chicken and sweet peaches, all tossed together with fresh greens. It’s perfect for a light meal!
The best part? The smoky flavor from the grilled peaches adds a fun twist. I love serving it with a simple vinaigrette for extra zing. It’s a hit, especially on warm days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches add sweetness and flavor when grilled. If peaches aren’t in season, try nectarines or a different stone fruit like plums. Both will give you a similar taste and texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to grill. If you prefer, swap them for thighs for a juicier bite, or even use grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is light and tender. You can substitute it with mixed greens, arugula, or kale if you want a bit more crunch or a stronger flavor.
Feta Cheese: While I love the tangy flavor of feta, goat cheese works beautifully as a substitute. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan feta or omit the cheese altogether.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a nice crunch! Pecans or almonds make great alternatives, and if you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds can give a similar texture.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right tips, you can get juicy results every time! Follow these steps to ensure your chicken is tender and flavorful:
- Start by preheating the grill to medium-high. A hot grill will sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices.
- Before grilling, pat the chicken dry for a good sear. Coat with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side. Check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist chicken!
Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
For Dressing:
- Your favorite salad dressing (such as honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 20-25 minutes to prepare, including grilling the chicken and peaches. It’s a quick and fresh meal perfect for a warm day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
First, get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. This will ensure everything cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and the juices run clear. Once cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Grill the Peaches:
Next, place the peach halves cut-side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes until you see lovely grill marks and they soften slightly. Remove them from the grill and slice into wedges when they are cool enough to handle.
4. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the fresh baby spinach, blueberries, sliced grilled peaches, sliced chicken, red onion, chopped walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese. Give it a good toss to distribute everything nicely.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your favorite salad dressing over the salad. If you like, you can add a little balsamic vinegar for extra flavor. Toss gently to mix everything together.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve the salad immediately, and feel free to garnish with extra feta cheese or walnuts if you like. Enjoy your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Peaches?
Absolutely! You can substitute peaches with other stone fruits like plums or nectarines, or even with sweeter fruits like mango or strawberries. Just keep in mind the grilling time might vary slightly depending on the fruit’s hardness.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply replace the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. Marinate the tofu in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to enhance its flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken and dressing should be kept separate from the greens to maintain freshness. Use within 2-3 days for the best taste. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Grill Chicken in Advance?
Yes, you can! Grill the chicken a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to assemble your salad, simply slice it cold or warm it slightly in the microwave. This not only saves time but also makes for an easy weeknight meal!
