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Fresh Summer Grilled Chicken Salad with Peach Vinaigrette

fresh summer grilled chicken salad - featured image

A vibrant and refreshing salad featuring smoky grilled chicken, juicy peaches, mixed greens, and a tangy champagne vinaigrette. Perfect for quick summer meals and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb / 450 g), trimmed and pounded evenly
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 3 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, baby spinach, butter lettuce blend)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup champagne vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  3. Brush cut sides of peach halves lightly with olive oil. Grill cut-side down for 3-4 minutes until caramelized and slightly softened. Remove and set aside to cool.
  4. Grill marinated chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  5. In a bowl or jar, whisk together champagne vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while whisking until emulsified.
  6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red onion, crumbled feta, and toasted nuts. Add sliced grilled chicken and grilled peach slices.
  7. Drizzle with champagne vinaigrette and gently toss to combine.
  8. Serve immediately, optionally adding extra vinaigrette and freshly ground black pepper.

Notes

Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Grill peaches gently to avoid mushiness. Emulsify vinaigrette well for best flavor. Store components separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken salad, peach vinaigrette, summer salad, healthy salad, grilled peaches, easy dinner, outdoor meal