Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Adeline

By Adeline

Published on

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

There’s nothing quite like a fresh, vibrant salad to brighten up your meal. This amazing Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad brings together tender, smoky chicken with sweet, caramelized peaches. It creates a symphony of flavors and textures in every single bite!

I often whip this up for a quick weeknight dinner; it’s so easy. My family just devours it! It’s perfect for those warm summer evenings on the patio too.

Why I Love This Recipe

Honestly? I just adore this Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad! It’s my go-to for so many reasons.

  • Super Quick: Perfect for busy weeknights!
  • Bursting with Flavor: The sweet, savory, and tangy notes are just divine.
  • So Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or even a potluck.
  • Feels Fancy: Yet, it’s truly incredibly simple to make.
  • Healthy & Fresh: A guilt-free meal that really satisfies.

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad Ingredients

Gathering these simple ingredients truly feels like magic. Each one plays a special role, creating a harmonious and utterly delicious Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad. It’s a fresh, wholesome combination that dances on your taste buds!

Core Ingredients for Your Salad

  • Olive Oil: Just a drizzle. It helps the chicken crisp up.
  • Chicken Breasts: The star of our show. They soak up all flavors.
  • Peaches: Sweet and juicy. They get wonderfully caramelized on the grill.
  • Baby Arugula: A peppery base. It adds a lovely fresh bite.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced delivers a subtle sharpness.
  • Fresh Basil: So fragrant and sweet. It brightens everything.
  • Fresh Mint: A refreshing twist. It really pops.
  • Fresh Parsley: Earthy and clean. It adds a nice green note.
  • Toasted Almonds: Crunchy texture. They give a nutty depth.
  • Flaky Sea Salt: For seasoning. It brings out all the flavors.
  • Freshly Ground Pepper: A little kick. It’s essential for balance.

Honey-Dijon Dressing Essentials

  • Balsamic Vinegar: Tangy and sweet. It’s the base of our dressing.
  • Lemon Juice: Bright and zesty. It cuts through richness.
  • Dijon Mustard: A little spice. It emulsifies the dressing too.
  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness. It balances the tang beautifully.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Smooth and rich. It ties everything together.
  • Pinch of Flaky Sea Salt: Just a touch. It enhances the dressing’s flavor.

Substitutions and Tips for Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Life in the kitchen is about flexibility, right? Here are some simple swaps and smart tips for your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad. You won’t believe how easy it is to make it your own! The exact amounts are in the printable recipe card below.

  • Nectarines: They work perfectly instead of peaches.
  • Walnuts: Swap these for almonds. Change up the crunch!
  • Spinach & Arugula: Use half baby spinach if you like.
  • Feta Cheese: A sprinkle of feta adds a lovely salty bite.
  • Herbs: Feel free to adjust herb amounts. Use what you love!
  • Prep Ahead: Prep components separately for freshness. This trick is a lifesaver.
  • Firm Peaches: Choose firmer peaches. They hold their shape better when grilled.
  • No Grill? No Problem! Pan-sear your chicken and peaches instead. It’s still delicious!

How to Make Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Making this Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad truly is a breeze. I promise you’ll love how easy these steps are! Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Precision isn’t overly critical, just relax and have fun cooking. Let’s get going!

Prepare Your Grill and Chicken

First, get your grill pan hot. Medium-high heat works great. If you have an outdoor grill, use that! Next, grab your chicken breasts. Place them on a cutting board. Drizzle with some good olive oil. Now, season well with flaky sea salt. Don’t forget fresh pepper too. Make sure all sides are coated nicely. This step adds so much flavor. The chicken is ready for the grill.

Grill the Chicken to Perfection

Once your pan is sizzling, add the chicken breasts. Don’t move them! Let them cook for 7-8 minutes per side. This creates those beautiful grill marks. It also ensures the chicken cooks through. It will be tender and juicy. Set the cooked chicken aside to cool. Slice it into ½ inch pieces later. Tender grilled chicken is key here.

Charring the Peaches

Now, use the same hot grill pan. Add your peach slices carefully. Cook them for 1-2 minutes per side. You want them charred and softened. But, they shouldn’t be mushy. Keep an eye on them. The sweetness really comes out. Set the peaches aside to cool. These grilled peaches add amazing flavor.

Crafting the Honey-Dijon Dressing

This dressing is so simple. Get a small jar for it. Add all the dressing ingredients. That’s balsamic vinegar and lemon juice. Don’t forget Dijon mustard and honey. Pour in the extra virgin olive oil. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt. Now, shake it really well. Shake until thick and smooth. This honey-Dijon dressing is truly fantastic!

Assembling Your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Time to put it all together! Grab a large serving bowl. Add the fresh arugula. Toss in all your chopped herbs. Add the toasted almonds for crunch. Season with a pinch of flaky sea salt. A little fresh ground pepper goes in too. Next, add the sliced chicken. Gently place the grilled peach slices. Drizzle generously with your dressing. Toss lightly to coat everything. Serve your amazing Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad immediately. Enjoy every bite!

How to Store Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

To keep your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad tasting its best, store components separately. Keep the chicken and peaches in airtight containers. Store the greens and dressing apart too. Assemble right before serving. This truly helps maintain crispness. It also preserves all the fresh flavors. It’s perfect for busy moms!

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcrowd your grill. Cook batches if needed.
  • Choose ripe but firm peaches. They hold their shape better.
  • Pat chicken dry before seasoning. It helps with browning.
  • Let chicken rest after grilling. It keeps it juicy.
  • Taste your dressing before adding to salad. Adjust as desired.
  • Massage arugula gently with dressing for best coating.
  • Serve this amazing Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad right away.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Grill Pan: Essential for those charred marks. A cast iron skillet works too!
  • Tongs: To flip chicken and peaches easily. Prevents burnt fingers.
  • Cutting Board: For slicing chicken and fruit. Have a sturdy one.
  • Sharp Knife: Makes quick work of slicing. Safety first!
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing everything. So much easier.
  • Measuring Spoons & Cups: For precise dressing ingredients.
  • Jar with Lid: For shaking up the delicious dressing.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve this Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad as a light main course.
  • Add a slice of crusty bread. It’s great for soaking up dressing.
  • Pair with a chilled glass of rosé wine. So refreshing!
  • Include grilled corn on the cob. It’s a sweet side dish.
  • A sparkling lemonade is also delightful. Enjoy your meal!
Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! Just prep the chicken, peaches, and dressing separately. Keep them chilled in airtight containers. Combine everything right before serving for the best taste. This keeps your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad fresh.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?

No grill? No problem at all! You can pan-sear the chicken and peaches. Use a hot skillet on your stovetop. This still gives great flavor and a nice char. Your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad will still be delicious.

Can I use different fruits in this salad?

You certainly can! Nectarines work beautifully in this recipe. Grilled pineapple or even plums could also be fun. Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonal fruits. Make this Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad your own!

How do I ensure my peaches aren’t too mushy after grilling?

Pick peaches that are ripe but still quite firm. Grill them quickly, just 1-2 minutes per side. You want softening and some char, not a complete breakdown. This keeps them perfect for your savory Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Adeline
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A refreshing and healthy grilled chicken and peach salad featuring tender chicken breasts, sweet grilled peaches, fresh arugula, herbs, and a homemade honey-Dijon dressing.


Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 skinless-boneless chicken breasts (about 1 lb. total)
  • 3 peaches, sliced in wedges
  • 4 cups baby arugula, packed
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mint, chopped
  • 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
  • Flaky sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Honey-Dijon dressing:

  • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey (omit for Whole30)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt


Instructions

  1. Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Or your grill if you have one.
  2. Add chicken breasts to a cutting board, drizzle with olive oil and season well with flaky sea salt and pepper, making sure all sides are coated well.
  3. Once pan or grill is hot, add chicken breasts, cooking 7-8 minutes per side without moving them, or until cooked through and tender. Set aside to cool, then slice into ½ inch pieces.
  4. Then, to the same grill pan (or grill if using), add peach slices, cooking 1-2 minutes each side or until charred and softened, but not mushy. Set aside to cool.
  5. To make dressing: add all ingredients to a jar and shake well until thick & combined.
  6. In a large serving bowl, add arugula, herbs, almond, a pinch of flaky sea salt and ground pepper.
  7. Add chicken and peach slices. Add a drizzle of dressing and toss well to coat. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground pepper. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • To have beautiful grill marks on your chicken and peaches, do not move them around when they’re cooking! Pick a spot on your grill or grill pan and boom, that’s it, don’t move them before you’re ready to flip them on the other side.
  • Choose peaches that are ripe but still firm, otherwise they’ll be too mushy and will decompose when added to your salad.
  • This salad is best eaten extra fresh, but you can prep this salad a few hours ahead: prep + store separately the chicken, the peaches, the salad mixture (arugula, fresh herbs, onion, almonds) and the dressing. Plate and assemble when you’re ready to eat. If you do prep this salad ahead, make sure to use firm peaches because they will continue to soften once cooked and become too mushy.
  • SUBSTITUTIONS/VARIATIONS:
  • Nectarines are also perfect for this salad.
  • You can use walnuts instead of almonds.
  • You can also use half baby spinach and half arugula instead of all arugula.
  • Feel free to add feta cheese too!
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Categorized in:

Dinners
share this recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star