This fresh salad is all about juicy grilled peaches, tender chicken, and crispy greens. It comes together with a zesty dressing that makes every bite taste like summer!
I love how the sweet peaches and savory chicken dance together in this dish. It’s a hit at picnics, and I sometimes mix in nuts for a fun crunch. Yum! 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy grilling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breasts can work too. For a vegetarian version, grilled tofu or chickpeas are great substitutes!
Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches give the best flavor. If they’re out of season, try nectarines or even canned peaches (drained) for convenience. I enjoy using peaches as they add a sweet touch to the dish.
Spinach & Mixed Salad Greens: Fresh spinach is packed with nutrients, but you can easily swap it with kale or arugula. It’s fun to mix different greens to add variety and flavor.
Walnuts: Toasted walnuts add crunch and flavor. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead for a similar texture.
Goat Cheese: This cheese brings creaminess. Feta or blue cheese can be nice alternatives if you don’t like goat cheese or have it on hand. Simply crumble it over the salad!
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll achieve juicy results. Start with preheating your grill; it’s important for even cooking. You’ll want to brush the chicken with olive oil to avoid sticking.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, but check for internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest a few minutes after grilling before slicing to keep it juicy.
How Do I Grill Peaches Without Them Sticking?
Grilling peaches is simple, but you want to keep them from sticking. Make sure the grill is preheated and well-oiled. Grilling them cut side down enhances their flavor and gives those nice grill marks.
- Slice each peach in half and remove the pit.
- Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes; they’ll be soft and caramelized, perfect for your salad!
How to Make Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup mixed salad greens
- ½ cup blueberries
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ⅓ cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
- ½ cup goat cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette (or your favorite dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes grilling the chicken and peaches and another 15 minutes assembling the salad. It’s a quick and flavorful dish you can enjoy any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it heats up, brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has lovely grill marks. Once done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Grill the Peaches:
While the chicken rests, it’s time to grill the peaches! Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes until they have nice grill marks and feel slightly softened. Once they are ready, remove them from the grill and set aside.
3. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh spinach and mixed salad greens. Add the sliced grilled chicken, grilled peach halves, blueberries, thinly sliced red onion, chopped walnuts, and crumbled goat cheese. Give everything a gentle toss to mix up all these tasty ingredients.
4. Dress and Serve:
Now, drizzle your balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss again to coat everything nicely. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately and feel free to garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw the chicken completely first. The best way is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the cold water method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 1-2 hours until thawed. Just be sure to dry it off before grilling!
What If I Don’t Have Peaches?
No problem! You can substitute with nectarines, which have a similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, consider using grilled pineapple for a tropical twist, or simply skip the fruit if you prefer a lighter salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it. When reheating, be mindful of the goat cheese, as it doesn’t hold up well in the microwave. You may want to add it fresh when serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead! Grill the chicken and peaches, then slice and refrigerate them. You can also wash and mix the greens, but add the blueberries, walnuts, cheese, and dressing just before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and vibrant.
