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As the warm sun graces us with its presence and flowers bloom in vibrant colors, summer becomes the perfect season for light and refreshing meals. One of the quintessential summer staples is the salad, an incredibly versatile dish that can incorporate a variety of seasonal ingredients. A well-crafted salad not only serves as a delightful accompaniment to any meal, but it can also stand alone as a nourishing main course. Among the myriad of salad options, the Peach Basil Chicken Salad shines brightly, offering a unique blend of flavors that celebrate the essence of summer.

Peach Basil Chicken Salad

Looking for a refreshing dish to brighten your summer meals? Try the Peach Basil Chicken Salad, a delicious blend of juicy peaches, tender chicken, and fresh basil! This vibrant salad combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with nutrients, it's a nourishing option featuring lean protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. Easy to prepare and customizable, this salad is sure to impress at your next gathering or picnic. Enjoy the taste of summer with every bite!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced

1 cup fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped

1 cup arugula or a blend of mixed salad greens

½ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup walnuts, toasted and roughly chopped

¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

⅓ cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cooking your chicken breast using your preferred method—grilling, baking, or boiling. Ensure the chicken is cooked through, then use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Allow the shredded chicken to cool for a few minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

    Toast the Walnuts: In a small skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and release a nutty aroma. Once toasted, remove them from the skillet and let them sit to cool.

      Mix the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sliced peaches, chopped basil, arugula or mixed greens, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Gently toss the mixture together, taking care to avoid bruising the delicate peach slices.

        Dress the Salad: Carefully drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the mixture. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the salad gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.

          Finish and Serve: Once the salad is well-mixed and vibrant, transfer it to serving bowls. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of the toasted walnuts for that delightful crunch.

            Enjoy: Serve this refreshing salad immediately for best flavor, or chill it briefly in the refrigerator for a cool treat. It pairs perfectly with grilled bread or can be enjoyed as a light main course.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 15 minutes | Serves 4