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Fresh Roasted Nectarine Chicken Salad Recipe with Easy Honey-Mustard Vinaigrette

roasted nectarine chicken salad - featured image

A bright and refreshing salad featuring caramelized roasted nectarines, tender chicken, mixed greens, and a tangy homemade honey-mustard vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g), cooked and shredded or sliced
  • 2 ripe nectarines, halved and pitted
  • 4 cups (120 g) mixed greens (baby spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
  • 1/4 cup (40 g) thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) toasted pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/3 cup (50 g) crumbled feta cheese
  • 3 tablespoons (45 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) honey (raw honey preferred)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Halve and pit nectarines, place cut side up on the baking sheet. Brush or drizzle lightly with a teaspoon of olive oil. Roast for 15-18 minutes until edges are golden and nectarines soften but hold shape.
  3. If chicken is not pre-cooked, season breasts with salt and pepper and pan-sear or roast until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest, then slice into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red onion, toasted nuts, and crumbled feta. Add sliced chicken.
  6. Gently place warm roasted nectarines on top, allowing juices to mingle with greens.
  7. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and toss lightly to coat evenly without bruising greens.
  8. Serve immediately while nectarines are warm and vinaigrette is fresh.

Notes

Use slightly firm nectarines to hold shape when roasting. Reduce roasting time if nectarines become too soft. Rest chicken before slicing to keep it juicy. For vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, honey with maple syrup, and feta with vegan cheese or avocado. Dress salad just before serving to avoid soggy greens.

Nutrition

Keywords: nectarine chicken salad, roasted nectarines, honey mustard vinaigrette, healthy salad, quick chicken salad, summer salad, easy dinner, gluten-free salad