Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad: A Summer Delight

Last updated on July 16, 2025

Imagine warm summer evenings, where the scent of grilled chicken and sweet peaches fills the air. It’s that feeling of nostalgia, isn’t it? As the sun dips low, you gather around the table with family and friends, laughter echoing and stories being shared over a delicious, vibrant salad. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad, a dish that perfectly captures the essence of those warm summer nights.

I promise you, this recipe is simple, stress-free, and entirely doable—even if this is your first time whipping up a salad like this. With a few fresh ingredients and a little bit of love, you’ll have a stunning meal ready in no time!

Why I Love This Recipe of Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

What makes this Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad so special to me is the wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The savory grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy peaches, and the peppery bite of arugula adds a delightful contrast. Plus, the herbs and nuts make every bite a little adventure.

For those cooking beginners out there, let me ease your worries! This recipe is forgiving, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process rather than stressing over perfection. It’s cozy, practical, and will impress anyone at your table. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this salad brings everyone together.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Creating a stunning Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad requires just a handful of ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

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• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad is the ultimate summer meal—fresh, vibrant, and satisfying. Juicy grilled peaches, tender chicken, crisp arugula, and fresh herbs come together in a salad that’s sweet, savory, and packed with texture. A light balsamic dressing ties it all together for a refreshing, protein-packed dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 3 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
• 4 cups baby arugula, packed
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup toasted almonds, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• For the Dressing:
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp honey (optional; omit for Whole30)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill for 7–8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove, rest, and slice into 1/2-inch strips.
3. Grill the peach wedges for 1–2 minutes per side until slightly charred but still firm. Set aside to cool.
4. Make the dressing: In a small jar, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, and honey. Shake well until emulsified.
5. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine arugula, sliced chicken, grilled peaches, red onion, fresh herbs, and almonds. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately while the peaches and chicken are slightly warm for best flavor.

Notes

• Protein swap: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
• Fruit flexibility: Try nectarines or plums if peaches aren’t in season.
• Nut alternatives: Walnuts or pecans can replace almonds for a different flavor.
• Make ahead: Grill the chicken and peaches up to a day in advance and refrigerate; assemble just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: grilled peach salad, summer salad, grilled chicken salad, arugula peach salad, healthy dinner salad, gluten-free salad

Essential Ingredients:

1. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for grilling the chicken and ¼ cup for the dressing — it adds richness and flavor.

2. Chicken Breasts: 4 skinless, boneless breasts (about 1 lb total). This is the protein that makes the salad hearty.

3. Peaches: 3 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges. The sweet peaches provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements in the salad.

4. Baby Arugula: 4 cups packed. This peppery green forms the base of the salad and adds a fresh taste.

5. Red Onion: ½ thinly sliced. It adds a nice sharpness that balances the sweetness of the peaches.

6. Fresh Herbs:

   • ½ cup basil, chopped
   
   
   • ½ cup mint, chopped
   
   
   • ½ cup parsley, chopped
   
   

   These herbs infuse freshness and bright flavors into the salad.

7. Toasted Almonds: ½ cup, chopped. They add a delightful crunch.

Optional Add-Ons:

• If you like a little more kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy touch.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

• Chicken: Can be replaced with grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Peaches: If peaches aren’t in season, you can use nectarines or plums.
• Arugula: If you can’t find arugula, spinach or mixed greens work well too.
• Nuts: If you prefer, walnuts or pecans could be used instead of almonds.

This Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad is not only nourishing but also adaptable, allowing you to make it your own based on what you have available.

How to Make Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad Step-by-Step

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process of this delicious salad.

Step 1: Preheat Your Grill

Begin by preheating your grill pan over medium-high heat. If you have an outdoor grill, now’s the perfect time to fire it up! A nice hot grill will ensure perfectly cooked chicken and beautifully charred peaches.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and generously season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground pepper. It’s important to coat all sides well, so give them a good rub to lock in that flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill or pan is hot, lay the chicken breasts down. Let them cook for 7-8 minutes on one side without moving them. This allows for those beautiful grill marks to develop and keeps the juices inside. After the time is up, flip the chicken over and cook for another 7-8 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and tender. Once done, set them aside on a plate to cool, then slice into ½ inch pieces.

Step 4: Grill the Peaches

In the same grill pan (or on the grill), add your sliced peach wedges. Grill them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, just until they’re charred and softened, but not mushy – we want these to hold their shape. Once grilled, set them aside to cool.

Step 5: Make the Dressing

For the dressing, all you need is a jar and a good shake! Add 2 teaspoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and ½ teaspoon of honey (omit the honey if you are following Whole30). Pour in ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, close the lid tightly, and shake until thick and combined. This dressing is tangy, sweet, and oh-so-delicious!

Step 6: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, start with a nice base of 4 cups of baby arugula. Next, add in the sliced chicken, grilled peach slices, thinly sliced red onion, chopped herbs (basil, mint, and parsley), and the toasted almonds. Season the mixture with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a few cracks of black pepper.

Step 7: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat. Make sure all the ingredients are well mixed and the flavors come together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary with a little extra salt and pepper.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right away for a delightful crunch and vibrant flavors. It’s the perfect addition to any meal or a stand-alone dinner that is bound to impress.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

One of the most common pitfalls is overcooking the chicken. Cooking it for the suggested time on each side ensures tenderness. Use a meat thermometer if possible; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Not Preheating the Grill

Grilling on a cold surface will result in stuck chicken and uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill or pan to achieve those beautiful grill marks.

Forgetting the Dressing

A good dressing ties everything together. Make sure not to skip it! You can always adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Skipping Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs elevate this salad immensely. Don’t skip the basil, mint, and parsley. Not only do they add flavor, but they also provide a splash of color.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

Pair with Grains

Serving your salad with a grain like quinoa or farro can make for a more filling meal. Cooked grilled grains work well with the salad and absorb the flavors nicely.

Complement with Cheese

For those who enjoy cheese, adding some crumbled goat cheese or feta can amplify the taste. The creaminess will enhance the salad’s texture.

Perfect Picnic Dish

This salad makes for a fantastic picnic option! Pack it in a jar for easy transporting. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to keep the arugula crisp.

Pair with a Light Drink

Enjoy it with a refreshing glass of iced tea, sparkling water, or a light white wine—ideal for warm summer evenings.

Nutritional Values of Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

This salad is not just delicious; it’s nutritious too! Here’s a breakdown of what you’re getting with each serving:

Rich in Protein

With grilled chicken as the base, this salad provides a generous amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.

Packed with Vitamins

From the fresh peaches, herbs, and arugula, you’ll find a bounty of vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and several B vitamins. This boosts your immune system and overall well-being.

Healthy Fats

The olive oil and almonds contribute healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and keeping you satiated longer.

Low-Calorie

This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a great meal choice if you’re watching your caloric intake while still feeling full and satisfied.

Conclusion

As you can see, the Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad is easier than it seems. You can customize it based on your preferences, whether that’s incorporating different proteins, salads or changing up the dressing. It’s a cozy, classic dish that even beginner cooks can create with confidence.

So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and create your summer masterpiece today.

I’d love to hear how your Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad turns out! Share your creations and any tweaks you made in the comments below. And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to subscribe for more healthy and delicious ideas!

FAQs About Grilled Chicken and Peach Salad

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