Peach Basil Chicken Salad

As the warm sun of summer graces our days, there's nothing quite like a vibrant and refreshing salad to brighten your palate and nourish your body. Enter the Peach Basil Chicken Salad—a delightful blend of flavors and textures that embodies the essence of the season. This salad is not just a meal; it's an experience that combines juicy peaches, tender chicken breast, fresh basil, and a medley of greens, creating a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Discover the ultimate summer refreshment with this Peach Basil Chicken Salad! Bursting with vibrant flavors, this dish combines juicy peaches, tender chicken, aromatic basil, and a mix of fresh greens. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. Customize it with your favorite nuts or cheeses, and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal that embodies the essence of summer!

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (grilled, baked, or boiled)

2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced into wedges

1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn into smaller pieces

1 cup mixed greens (your choice of arugula, spinach, or a blend)

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled into small bits

½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved

¼ cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped (optional for crunch)

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness

4 tablespoons olive oil for dressing

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors

1 tablespoon honey for a touch of sweetness

Salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a well-rounded flavor

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: If your chicken is not pre-cooked, begin by grilling, baking, or boiling the chicken breast until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once fully cooked, allow the chicken to cool for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks to achieve a fluffy texture.

Mix the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, emulsified dressing. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Assemble the Salad Base: In a large salad bowl, layer your mixed greens as the base. Top with the shredded chicken, sliced peaches, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion. This layering allows for a beautiful presentation and an even distribution of flavors.

Add Cheese & Nuts: Fold in the crumbled feta cheese and the chopped walnuts or pecans, if using. These ingredients will bring added creaminess and crunch, enhancing the salad's texture.

Incorporate Fresh Basil: Gently toss in the fresh basil leaves, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the salad. This step infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma that brightens the overall flavor.

Dress the Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mix. Using a light hand, toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients without wilting the greens—a delicate toss helps maintain the fresh look and crispness.

Serve: For an attractive presentation, transfer the salad to a large serving bowl or arrange it on individual plates. This salad is best enjoyed fresh, making it an excellent option for a delightful lunch or a light dinner!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 15 minutes | serves 4