Balsamic Chicken and Peach Salad
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
This vibrant, summery Balsamic Chicken and Peach Salad is the perfect dish to serve on warm days. With tender, grilled chicken breasts, juicy peaches, and fresh spinach, this salad bursts with sweet and savory flavors. Dressed in a tangy balsamic vinegar and olive oil dressing, it’s low-fat yet full of flavor, making it an excellent choice for a light meal or a nutritious side. It’s also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed either warm or at room temperature, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 breasts |
| Fresh basil leaves | 4 leaves |
| Balsamic vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh peaches | 2, halved and sliced |
| Fresh spinach leaves | 4 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 271.8 kcal |
| Fat content | 13.6 g |
| Saturated fat content | 2.1 g |
| Cholesterol content | 75.5 mg |
| Sodium content | 162.2 mg |
| Carbohydrate content | 10.1 g |
| Fiber content | 2.1 g |
| Sugar content | 7.7 g |
| Protein content | 27.3 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. Line the grill rack with foil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This step makes cleanup a breeze. -
-
Marinate the Chicken:
In a shallow dish, combine 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add a generous pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture to combine. Add the boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the dish, turning them in the marinade to ensure they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken breasts on the prepared grill rack. Grill for 10-12 minutes on the first side, then flip and grill for an additional 10-12 minutes on the other side until the chicken is cooked through, golden brown, and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Once grilled, remove the chicken from the heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing. -
Prepare the Peaches:
While the chicken is grilling, halve the fresh peaches and remove the stones. Slice each half into thick wedges. The peaches should be ripe but firm, ensuring they hold their shape during the grilling process and add a natural sweetness to the salad. -
Assemble the Salad:
Arrange the fresh spinach leaves on a large serving platter. Once the chicken has rested, slice it thinly and arrange the slices over the spinach. Scatter the sliced peaches on top of the chicken, adding a burst of color and sweetness. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, shred the remaining fresh basil leaves and add them to the bowl. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and fragrant. -
Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the prepared balsamic basil dressing over the salad. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that each ingredient is coated with the dressing for maximum flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately, either warm or at room temperature, as a light and refreshing meal. It pairs wonderfully with a chilled glass of white wine or a light, citrusy beverage.
Tips and Variations:
- Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Nuts or Cheese: For added texture and richness, sprinkle some toasted almonds or crumbled goat cheese on top.
- Protein Alternatives: For a twist, you could substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
This Balsamic Chicken and Peach Salad is sure to become a favorite, offering a delicious balance of protein, greens, and fruit that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping things light and healthy. Perfect for casual gatherings or as a quick dinner option, it’s a recipe that delivers in both taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy this burst of summer on your plate!
