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Peach Basil Chicken Salad Recipe

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4.2 from 159 reviews

Peach Basil Chicken Salad is a refreshing, sweet and savory dish featuring ripe peaches, fresh basil, shredded chicken, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a creamy, tangy vinaigrette. Perfect as a light lunch or served on rolls or lettuce, this salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures with an easy make-ahead preparation.

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

  • 1 ripe peach, peeled and cut into quarters
  • 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 Tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 1/2 Tablespoons vinegar (Tarragon vinegar recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
  • 2 teaspoons sugar (or less to taste)
  • 1/8 teaspoon coarse ground pepper
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

For the Salad:

  • 2 ripe peaches, peeled and cubed
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 3 ribs celery, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sweet red bell pepper, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In either a blender or using a hand blender, combine the dressing ingredients including the peach quarters, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped basil, vinegar, salt, celery seed, sugar, coarse ground pepper, and mayonnaise. Blend the mixture until it becomes smooth and creamy. Set the dressing aside to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Prepare the salad: Shred the cooked chicken and place it in a large mixing bowl. Add the peeled and cubed peaches, chopped celery, green onion, and chopped red bell pepper. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently stir until everything is well coated with the dressing.
  3. Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to develop fully and the salad to chill nicely.
  4. Serve: When ready to serve, spoon the peach basil chicken salad onto rolls for a sandwich or onto a bed of fresh lettuce for a lighter presentation. If serving on bread, consider storing the salad separately and assembling just before eating to prevent sogginess.

Notes

  • Peach Basil Chicken Salad tastes even better after the flavors have had time to blend, making it an excellent make-ahead recipe.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If serving on rolls, store the chicken salad separately and assemble the sandwich just before eating to keep the bread from becoming soggy.
  • This recipe does not freeze well due to the fresh peaches and mayonnaise-based dressing, so it is best enjoyed fresh.