Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad

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Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad served in a bowl with greens and vibrant colors.

WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad is a delightful combination of flavors that captivates the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal. Not only does it celebrate the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches and the kick of jalapeño, but it also includes tender chicken that is roasted to perfection. Each bite provides a burst of flavor, making it an ideal dish for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or a weekday dinner.

This salad stands out because it is not just about taste; it’s also about nutrition. With fresh greens, fruits, and lean protein, it offers a balanced mixture of vitamins and minerals. It’s a great choice for anyone aiming to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

HOW TO MAKE Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1–1 ½ lbs), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
  • 2 tablespoons garlic chili oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 ripe peaches, sliced
  • 1 large jalapeño, chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 can (15.25 oz) corn kernels, drained
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup (149 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon garlic chili oil
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic chili oil, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss the cubed chicken in the oil and spice mixture until it is evenly coated.
  4. Spread the chicken in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Roast the chicken for 10 minutes.
  6. While the chicken starts roasting, toss the peach slices and chopped jalapeño in the remaining olive oil.
  7. After 10 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and nestle the peaches and jalapeños around the chicken.
  8. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 10–12 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the peaches are soft and caramelized.
  9. In a large bowl, combine the roasted chicken, peaches, jalapeño, mixed greens, corn kernels, red onion, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro.
  10. Drizzle lime juice, honey, and garlic chili oil over the salad. Toss gently to combine.
  11. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembly

Once everything is tossed together, the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad is ready to be served. You can either serve it in a large bowl for sharing or plate it individually for a more formal presentation. The vibrant colors of the salad will entice everyone at the table. Don’t forget to enjoy it while it’s fresh!

HOW TO SERVE Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad

To serve Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad, you can dish it onto plates or serve it in a large bowl. This salad pairs wonderfully with a light vinaigrette or just as is, thanks to the flavor from the roasted chicken and fruits. You can also add some tortilla strips on top for extra crunch or serve with a side of crusty bread.

This salad is great for lunch or dinner, and it can also be a fun side dish at a barbecue or potluck. Make sure to have napkins handy, as it can get a little messy with the juicy peaches and dressing.

HOW TO STORE Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad

If you have leftovers, you can store Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad in an airtight container. This salad is best eaten fresh, but it can last in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the greens may become wilted and less crisp.

It’s a good idea to store the dressing separately if you have extra. This way, when you are ready to eat the leftovers, you can add a fresh drizzle of lime juice and garlic chili oil, which will give it a vibrant flavor boost.

TIPS TO MAKE Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad

  1. Choose ripe peaches: Selecting ripe peaches will add sweetness and flavor to your salad. Make sure they are slightly soft to the touch.

  2. Customize the heat: If you prefer a milder salad, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or remove the seeds. Conversely, increase the heat by using more chili powder or additional jalapeños.

  3. Chill the salad dressing: For even better flavor, chill the lime juice and honey dressing in the fridge for 30 minutes before adding it to the salad.

  4. Protein alternatives: If you’re not keen on chicken, feel free to substitute it with grilled shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

  5. Add nuts for crunch: For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts.

  6. Meal prep: This salad can be easily prepared ahead of time. Just keep each ingredient stored separately until you’re ready to assemble.

VARIATIONS

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad is versatile and can be tailored to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations to consider:

  • Fruit Swap: If peaches are out of season, try using mango, nectarines, or even pineapple for a tropical twist. Each fruit will bring different textures and flavors to the mix.

  • Green Options: Mixed greens can be swapped out for spinach, arugula, or kale, which will change the salad’s flavor profile and nutritional content.

  • Grains: Adding grains like quinoa or farro can transform this salad into a heartier meal, providing extra fiber and protein.

  • Dressing Variants: Instead of using lime juice and honey, try a balsamic vinaigrette or a honey mustard dressing to change the flavor dynamics.

  • Cheese Addition: Crumbled feta or goat cheese would add a creamy and tangy element to the salad, balancing out the sweetness of the peaches.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time; however, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving. This helps prevent the greens from wilting and keeps the salad fresh and crunchy.

2. Can I use frozen peaches?
While fresh peaches are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen peaches if fresh ones are not available. Just be aware that they may not have the same firmness after roasting.

3. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check any packaged ingredients, like corn, to ensure they are processed in a gluten-free facility.

Enjoy crafting this flavorful Sweet and Spicy Chicken Peach Salad, perfect for any occasion! The blend of sweet peaches and spicy chicken, complemented by fresh greens and colorful veggies, will surely impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!