Name: Easy Maple Grilled Chicken Salad with Peaches
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Marinade:; 2 chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard; ¼ cup maple syrup; For the Salad:; 1 avocado, sliced; 1 peach, sliced; 2 handfuls mixed baby salad leaves; 2 cups brown basmati and wild rice mix; 2 tablespoons mixed seeds

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This easy maple grilled chicken salad with peaches combines the smoky sweetness of grilled chicken marinated in a maple mustard mixture with the juicy freshness of peaches, creating a deliciously balanced summer salad. It’s vibrant, refreshing, and perfect for light dinners or as a protein-packed lunch.

Easy Maple Grilled Chicken Salad with Peaches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The flavors in this salad are a delightful harmony of sweet, savory, and fresh. The grilled chicken is tender and flavorful, enhanced by the maple marinade, while the sweet peaches and creamy avocado add a refreshing contrast. Served over a bed of brown basmati and wild rice and topped with mixed greens and seeds, this salad is satisfying, nutritious, and bursting with summer vibes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Marinade:

2 chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
¼ cup maple syrup

For the Salad:

1 avocado, sliced
1 peach, sliced
2 handfuls mixed baby salad leaves
2 cups brown basmati and wild rice mix
2 tablespoons mixed seeds

directions

Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, combine Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Reserve 2 tablespoons of the mixture for later use as a salad dressing.
- Coat the chicken breasts in the remaining marinade and set aside to marinate for 20 minutes.
Cook the Rice
- While the chicken marinates, cook the brown basmati and wild rice mix according to the package instructions.
Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan and brush it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
Prepare Reserved Dressing
- While the chicken cooks, thin the reserved mustard-maple mixture with 2–4 tablespoons of water, adjusting to your desired dressing consistency.
Assemble the Salad
- Once the rice is cooked, place it in the bottom of a bowl as the base.
- Top with mixed baby salad leaves, sliced avocado, and sliced peach.
- Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it over the salad.
- Sprinkle mixed seeds on top for added crunch and texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Fruit swap: Try nectarines, mangoes, or plums instead of peaches for a different fruity twist.
Leafy greens: Swap the mixed baby salad leaves for arugula or spinach for an added peppery bite.
Dressing options: Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar to give the salad a zesty finish.
Vegetarian version: Replace the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. To prevent wilting, store the greens, rice, and dressing in different containers. Reheat the rice and grilled chicken if desired, but keep the salad toppings fresh.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa would make a great substitute for the rice, adding a slightly nutty flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your mustard and other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.

Can I make the salad ahead of time?

You can prep the rice, chicken, and dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad right before serving to maintain freshness.

Can I add cheese to the salad?

Feta, goat cheese, or a crumbly blue cheese would pair wonderfully with the flavors in this salad.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Add a drizzle of sriracha sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan indoors to get those great grill marks.

How long will this salad last in the fridge?

Stored separately, the components of the salad will last for up to 2 days in the fridge.

Can I substitute the mixed seeds?

Yes, you can substitute with any seeds or nuts of your choice, like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or chopped almonds.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes, frozen peaches can be used, though fresh peaches will provide a better texture for this salad.

Conclusion

The Easy Maple Grilled Chicken Salad with Peaches is a delightful summer dish that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly. The grilled chicken marinated in maple mustard, paired with juicy peaches and creamy avocado, creates a meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. With its colorful ingredients and nutritious components, it’s a salad that’s as tasty as it is healthy, making it perfect for any occasion.