Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad

Name: Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 large cucumber, diced; 2 ripe peaches, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking

I absolutely love this Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad! Combining the sweet juiciness of ripe peaches with crunchy cucumbers and savory chicken creates a refreshing dish that bursts with flavor. Whether I whip it up for a quick lunch or serve it at a summer gathering, it’s always a hit. The vibrant colors and contrasting textures make it visually appealing, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a light meal, and I can't wait for you to try it and enjoy every bite as much as I do!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-12T12:54:19.341Z

When I first made this Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad, I was searching for something light yet satisfying. The bright flavors of the peaches and cucumber complemented the tender chicken beautifully. I discovered that grilling the chicken not only adds flavor but also helps keep it moist. This technique really elevates the dish and makes it shine on a warm day.

As I layered the salad with fresh herbs, I realized it’s a wonderful way to make use of seasonal ingredients. I sometimes mix in a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of freshness. It’s a recipe that perfectly captures the essence of summer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory combination of peaches and chicken
Crisp cucumbers add a refreshing crunch
Quick and easy preparation that fits any occasion

Enhancing Texture and Flavor

The combination of textures in the Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad is one of its standout features. The crunch from the diced cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the tender shredded chicken and juicy peach slices. When selecting cucumbers, opt for Persian or English varieties as they have fewer seeds and maintain their crispness, enhancing the overall texture of the salad. A quick tip: if you peel the cucumber, it allows the dressing to adhere more efficiently, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

In addition to texture, the flavor profile is elevated by the red onion and cilantro. The slight sharpness of the red onion adds a zesty note, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the peaches. If you find raw onion too strong, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the salad; this will mellow their flavor while keeping the desired crunch. Fresh cilantro brings a burst of herbal freshness, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is an excellent substitute.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This salad is ideal for meal prep since it can be made ahead of time. After you toss the salad, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together better. However, if you plan on storing leftovers, it's best to keep the dressing separate. You can prepare everything and store the salad in an airtight container for up to two days. Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad to avoid sogginess and maintain the crunch.

If you want to make this salad even more substantial, consider adding a grain like quinoa or couscous, which not only increases satiety but also enhances the nutritional value. Just prepare the grains according to package instructions, let them cool, and fold them in gently. This variation lasts well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for packed lunches or potlucks.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

To serve the Peachy Cucumber & Chicken Salad, presentation can make a difference. Use a large platter or individual bowls for a more rustic look. Garnishing with additional cilantro leaves or thin slices of peach can elevate the visual appeal. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled bread or a light, crisp white wine, making it a perfect centerpiece for a summer brunch or casual dinner party.

For a complete meal, consider serving this salad alongside a light soup, like a chilled gazpacho, or with a side of sweet potato fries. The contrasting flavors and temperatures create a delightful dining experience. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, this salad also works well as a filling in wraps or as a topping for tacos, making it versatile enough for various meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 large cucumber, diced
2 ripe peaches, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients well and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Grill or pan-cook the chicken until fully cooked, about 20 minutes, then shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced cucumber, peach slices, red onion, and cilantro.

Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Serve

Enjoy the salad immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for up to an hour before serving for a refreshing taste!

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to a day in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute grilled chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If peaches are out of season or not available, feel free to use nectarines or plums as a substitute. These fruits have a similar sweetness and juiciness that will still bring that fruity essence to the dish. Likewise, if you prefer not to use chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and can make this dish even easier to prepare on busy days.

For those needing to stay gluten-free, check for gluten-free balsamic vinegar and ensure your chicken is marinated with gluten-free spices. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility; add nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch, or swap in arugula or spinach for a different base instead of cucumbers if you're aiming for more greens!

Troubleshooting Salad Issues

If you find that your salad becomes too watery after storage, this could be due to the cucumbers releasing moisture. To combat this, consider salting the diced cucumbers and letting them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Rinse them before adding them to the salad, which will keep everything fresh and crisp.

Another common issue is that the salad dressing can overpower the delicate flavors of the fruit and chicken. Ensure you mix in small amounts of the dressing at first, tasting as you go, until you achieve the desired flavor balance. If you accidentally add too much dressing, a handful of fresh greens can help to absorb some of the excess and offset the flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this salad?

Yes, you can try using mangoes or strawberries for different flavor profiles.

→ Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to eat.

→ How can I make this salad vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken and add chickpeas or tofu for protein.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

It's great on its own or served with crusty bread or grilled vegetables.