Balsamic Peach Chicken Salad

As the temperatures rise and summer days stretch longer, the quest for a refreshing and nutritious meal becomes increasingly important. The Balsamic Peach Chicken Salad emerges as an ideal solution, offering a delightful blend of succulent grilled chicken, juicy peaches, and a vibrant array of fresh greens, all brought together with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Not only does this colorful dish tantalize the taste buds, but it also provides a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for warm weather dining.

Discover the ultimate summer dish with Balsamic Peach Chicken Salad, featuring juicy grilled chicken and ripe peaches mixed with fresh greens and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. This vibrant salad not only pleases the palate but is also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for warm weather dining. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or gatherings, learn how to prepare this refreshing dish and explore creative variations to keep your summer meals exciting.

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges

4 cups mixed salad greens (a blend of arugula, spinach, and romaine)

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/3 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped and toasted

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup high-quality balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon pure honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

- Begin by preheating your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high heat.

- Rub the chicken breasts with the olive oil, then sprinkle with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to ensure even seasoning.

- Place the chicken on the grill or in the skillet and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and there is no pink remaining in the center. Utilize a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips.

Make the Dressing:

- In a small mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of both salt and pepper. Whisk together thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended. Taste the dressing and adjust the sweetness or acidity as desired.

Assemble the Salad:

- In a large serving bowl, layer the mixed greens, sliced peaches, thinly sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted nuts.

- Arrange the sliced chicken strips on top of the salad mixture.

Dress the Salad:

- Drizzle the homemade balsamic dressing evenly over the salad. Gently toss all of the ingredients together to ensure that every bite is coated with the dressing.

Serve:

- Portion the salad into individual bowls or plates, serving it immediately for the freshest taste. If desired, garnish with additional toasted nuts or crumbled feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the salad in clear glass bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. A sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper on top just before serving adds visual appeal and an aromatic finish. Enjoy!