This Grilled Peach Chicken Salad is a fresh and colorful dish that brings together juicy peaches, tender chicken, and crisp greens. Drizzled with a sweet honey dressing, it’s like summer on a plate!
Who knew healthy could be this tasty? I love tossing this salad together for a quick meal. It’s perfect for days when I want something light yet satisfying—plus, who can resist grilled peaches? 🍑
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peaches: Ripe peaches are the star! If fresh peaches are out of season, use nectarines or canned peaches (drained) for a similar taste. Grilling enhances the sweetness, so don’t skip this step!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic here. For a quicker option, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can work well too. Just shred and toss it on top for a boost of flavor.
Baby Spinach: The fresh greens add great nutrition and color, but feel free to swap in kale or mixed salad greens if you prefer. Just make sure whatever you choose is tender to maintain nice textures.
Feta Cheese: I love the briny flavor of feta, but you can easily substitute with goat cheese or even a dairy-free option if needed. It keeps the salad creamy and adds richness.
Pecans: These add crunch but can be swapped for walnuts or almonds if you like. You can also omit nuts altogether if you’re allergic or prefer a nut-free option.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get juicy results:
- Always preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps achieve those tasty grill marks!
- Before grilling, let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes to promote even cooking.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season simply with salt and pepper. This allows the chicken’s natural flavor to shine through.
- Cook for 6–7 minutes per side, avoiding the urge to flip it too early. When the juices run clear and it reaches 165°F, it’s done.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for a few minutes. This keeps it moist, and slicing it afterwards gives those beautiful juicy pieces.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken every time for your salads!
Grilled Peach Chicken Salad with Honey Dressing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
For The Honey Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad will take about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30-35 minutes. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a fresh lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so that it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to cook.
2. Season The Ingredients:
Brush the peach halves and chicken breasts with a little olive oil, which helps with grilling. Then, season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
3. Grill The Peaches:
Place the peach halves cut side down on the grill. Grill them for about 3-5 minutes until you see lovely char marks. When they’re done, remove them from the grill and set aside.
4. Grill The Chicken:
Now it’s time for the chicken! Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure they’re fully cooked (juices should run clear). After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips.
5. Make The Honey Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Assemble The Salad:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the baby spinach, sliced grilled peaches, blueberries, red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted pecans. Make sure they’re well mixed!
7. Add The Chicken:
Top the salad with the sliced grilled chicken you prepared earlier.
8. Dress The Salad:
Drizzle the honey dressing over the top and gently toss the salad to combine all the flavors beautifully.
9. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, add some fresh basil leaves for a pop of flavor and color. Serve the salad immediately, and enjoy the delightful blend of smoky, sweet, and savory!
Enjoy this colorful, fresh, and flavorful salad that balances smoky grilled peaches with tender chicken and a sweet honey dressing!
FAQ for Grilled Peach Chicken Salad with Honey Dressing
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Salad?
Absolutely! If peaches aren’t in season, try substituting with nectarines, mangos, or even strawberries for a different twist. Just ensure they are ripe to enhance sweetness and flavor.
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the honey dressing up to a week in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good shake before using, as it may separate over time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To keep leftovers fresh, store the salad components separately. Place any unused chicken and salad in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting.
What Can I Serve this Salad With?
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled vegetables, or as a side dish to your favorite protein. It also makes a great standalone meal for a light lunch or dinner!
