Summer Grilled Peach and Chicken Salad with Honey Lime Dressing

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe peaches, halved and pitted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
• For the dressing:
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1-2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Brush the peach halves lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking on the grill.
4. Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Grill peach halves cut side down for 3-4 minutes until grill marks form and peaches are slightly softened. Remove and slice thinly.
6. While the chicken rests, whisk together lime juice, honey, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified to create the dressing.
7. Slice the rested chicken into strips. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced peaches, chicken strips, crumbled feta, toasted nuts, and cilantro leaves if using.
8. Drizzle the honey lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
9. Serve immediately or chill for 15 minutes to let flavors meld before serving.

Chef tips

• If you don’t have a grill, grill pan or broiler works well to get nice char marks on chicken and peaches.
• For a nut-free version, omit the toasted nuts or substitute with pumpkin seeds for crunch.
• Use ripe but firm peaches to avoid them falling apart on the grill.
• This salad can be made ahead by prepping the dressing and grilling the chicken and peaches in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep greens crisp.