Grilled Peach & Chicken Salad with Creamy Goat Cheese and Honey Vinaigrette
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of summer with this refreshing Grilled Peach & Chicken Salad featuring juicy grilled peaches, tender rotisserie chicken, and creamy goat cheese. Drizzled with a delightful honey white balsamic vinaigrette, this salad combines sweet and savory elements, making it a perfect dish for lunch or a light dinner. It's not only a feast for the palate but also visually stunning, making it an impressive option for gatherings or picnics. Packed with mixed greens, crunchy hazelnuts, and the vibrant sweetness of peaches, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
mixed salad greens
8 cups (washed and ready to use)
yellow peaches
2 (slightly firm to the touch, sliced in half and pitted)
toasted hazelnuts
1/4 cup (roughly chopped)
cooked rotisserie chicken breast
1 cup (chopped)
fresh goat cheese
2 ounces (crumbled)
olive oil
2 tablespoons
white balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon
honey
1 teaspoon
sea salt
a tiny pinch
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing the honey white balsamic vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the white balsamic vinegar and olive oil until well combined. Stir in the honey and a tiny pinch of sea salt. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to prepare for grilling the peaches.
3
Slice each peach in half, discarding the pit, and lightly brush the cut sides with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the peaches, cut side down, on the hot grill. Close the lid and grill for approximately five minutes or until the peaches are slightly softened and have beautiful grill marks. Remove from the grill and allow to cool slightly, then slice them thinly.
4
To assemble the salads, divide the mixed salad greens evenly between two large serving bowls. Top the greens with the chopped rotisserie chicken, crumbled goat cheese, toasted hazelnuts, and grilled peach slices.
5
Drizzle the prepared honey white balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to combine just before serving, ensuring each ingredient is coated with the dressing.
6
Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful medley of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Grilled Peach & Chicken Salad?
It is a refreshing summer salad featuring juicy grilled peaches, tender rotisserie chicken, creamy goat cheese, and toasted hazelnuts tossed in a honey white balsamic vinaigrette.
What kind of dressing is used for this recipe?
The salad is dressed with a homemade honey white balsamic vinaigrette made from olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, honey, and a pinch of sea salt.
How long should I grill the peaches?
Grill the peach halves for approximately five minutes over medium-high heat until they are slightly softened and show grill marks.
Can I use a different type of fruit instead of yellow peaches?
Yes, nectarines or white peaches are excellent substitutes as they have a similar texture when grilled.
What can I substitute for rotisserie chicken?
You can use grilled chicken breast, sliced turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian protein option.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Based on the listed ingredients like fresh produce, chicken, and balsamic vinegar, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What type of greens work best for this salad?
A mix of salad greens like spring mix, arugula, and baby spinach provides a nice variety of textures and flavors.
How do I keep the peaches from sticking to the grill?
Lightly brush the cut sides of the peaches with olive oil before placing them on the hot grill to prevent sticking.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, toasted pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds are great alternatives to hazelnuts.
What if I don't have white balsamic vinegar?
You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or champagne vinegar for a similar tangy sweetness.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it is best to assemble and dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
Is goat cheese necessary for this recipe?
While goat cheese adds a signature creaminess, you can substitute it with crumbled feta or gorgonzola if preferred.
How do I toast the hazelnuts?
Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned, stirring frequently.
Can I use frozen peaches for this salad?
Fresh, slightly firm peaches are recommended for grilling. Frozen peaches may become too mushy when heated.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to serve two large bowls, making it perfect for a shared lunch or dinner.
Can I substitute the honey in the dressing?
Yes, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a vegan-friendly sweetener in the vinaigrette.
Is this salad suitable for a picnic?
Yes, but it is recommended to keep the dressing in a separate container and toss it with the salad just before eating.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Sliced red onions, cucumbers, or avocado would make delicious additions to this salad.
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly for getting those beautiful grill marks on the peaches indoors.
How should I store leftover salad?
Store any leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a balanced meal featuring lean protein, healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, and plenty of fiber from the greens and fruit.
Should the chicken be served warm or cold?
You can serve the rotisserie chicken either warm or cold, depending on your personal preference.
How do I pit a peach properly?
Slice the peach around the circumference along the seam, then gently twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them and remove the pit.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the chicken or replace it with grilled halloumi or extra nuts.
What is the best way to crumble goat cheese?
Goat cheese is easiest to crumble when it is very cold, straight from the refrigerator.
Can I add berries to this salad?
Yes, fresh blueberries or blackberries would complement the grilled peaches and goat cheese beautifully.
Is this salad filling enough for dinner?
Yes, the combination of protein from the chicken and fats from the cheese and nuts makes it a satisfying light dinner.
Can I double this recipe for a party?
Absolutely, you can easily scale the ingredients up to serve a larger group.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor in the homemade vinaigrette.
Does the dressing need salt?
A tiny pinch of sea salt is added to the dressing to enhance and balance the sweetness of the honey and peaches.