This Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is fresh and tasty! It features juicy grilled chicken, sweet peaches, and crispy greens, all drizzled with a light dressing. Perfect for a sunny day!
I love how the grilled peaches add a sweet twist to the salad—it’s like summer on a plate! Pair it with a nice cold drink, and you’re all set for a fun meal. 🍑🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this salad, as they grill well and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast could work, or you can swap in grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Peaches: Ripe peaches give a sweet and smoky flavor when grilled. If peaches aren’t in season, nectarines or plums can act as a good substitute. Even canned peaches could work, just grill briefly to warm them up.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is perfect for this salad, adding a nice crunch and color. You could also use arugula for a spicy kick or mixed greens for variety.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a creamy tangy touch. If you’re avoiding dairy, try crumbled goat cheese, or for a vegan option, use plant-based feta or leave it out completely.
Walnuts: Walnuts give a crunchy texture. If you’re nut-sensitive, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent alternatives, adding a nice crunch without the allergens.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few steps, you can get perfectly grilled chicken every time. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat to ensure even cooking.
- Season the chicken breasts generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano for flavor.
- Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) inside.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices in for a moist bite.
How to Make Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
For Seasoning and Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, followed by about 20 minutes cooking the chicken and peaches on the grill. It’s a quick, healthy meal that’s perfect for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. This will give you that delicious char on the chicken and peaches, enhancing their flavors.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the grill heats up, take your chicken breasts and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Make sure both sides are well coated for the best flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want it to be fully cooked, so the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. 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 them for about 3-4 minutes until you see nice grill marks and they soften slightly. Then take them off the grill and set aside.
5. Make the Salad Base:
In a large bowl, combine the fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, blueberries, and chopped walnuts. Toss everything together gently so the flavors mix nicely.
6. Assemble Your Salad:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Slice the grilled chicken and peaches, and arrange them beautifully on top of your salad mixture.
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of your salad. If you want an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little honey over it all to enhance the flavors even more.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Ultimate Grilled Peach Chicken Salad immediately with your favorite dressing or a simple vinaigrette. Enjoy this refreshing meal!
Can I Substitute Other Fruits for Peaches?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season or you prefer something different, you can substitute them with grilled nectarines, plums, or even mango slices. Just make sure the fruit is ripe for the best flavor and grill until softened.
How to Grill Chicken Without a Grill?
If you don’t have a grill, no worries! You can use a grill pan on the stove or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Just make sure to season it the same way!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare all the salad components (excluding the grilled chicken and peaches) in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just grill the chicken and peaches right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Avoid storing the salad with dressing to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to eat, just toss the ingredients together again and add the dressing!
