Grilled Chicken Peach and Arugula Salad – A Fresh, Healthy Summer Salad with Juicy Peaches, Peppery Arugula, and Honey Dijon Dressing
Grilled Chicken Peach and Arugula Salad combines juicy grilled chicken, sweet peaches, peppery arugula, creamy cheese, toasted nuts, and a tangy honey Dijon dressing. The grilled peaches add caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the smoky chicken. Fresh arugula provides a crisp, peppery contrast, while toasted pecans or almonds add satisfying crunch. Packed with lean protein, vitamins, fiber, and healthy fats, this salad is both nutritious and filling. Perfect for summer lunches, light dinners, or entertaining, it is a fresh and flavorful seasonal favorite.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, halved and sliced
- 5 cups fresh arugula
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup cucumber, sliced
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans or sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
- ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese or feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
For the Honey Dijon Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Brush lightly with olive oil.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Brush the peach halves lightly with olive oil and grill them for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly caramelized with grill marks. Slice into wedges.
- Toast the pecans or almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Arrange the arugula and spinach on a large serving platter.
- Top with sliced grilled chicken, grilled peaches, cucumber, red onion, toasted nuts, basil, and crumbled goat cheese.
- Drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad, toss gently if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm peaches for grilling.
- Fresh arugula provides the best peppery flavor.
- Allow the chicken to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
- Toast the nuts to enhance their flavor.
- Goat cheese adds a creamy, tangy contrast.
- Homemade dressing delivers the freshest taste.
- Assemble just before serving for the best texture.
- Store the dressing separately if making ahead.