Peach Chicken Romaine Salad with Pumpkin Seeds
Fresh fruit and savory protein make a satisfying pairing, especially when built on crisp, sturdy greens. This salad balances juicy ripe peach slices with sliced grilled chicken breast over chopped romaine, finished with a drizzle of olive oil and a scattered handful of crunchy pumpkin seeds. It comes together quickly using pre-cooked chicken, making it ideal for a quick midday meal or a light dinner that requires zero stove time at assembly.
Why this one works
- Crisp romaine holds up nicely under the weight of the chicken and fruit
- Sweet, juicy peaches balance the savory grilled chicken breast
- Pumpkin seeds introduce a distinct, earthy crunch throughout
- Assembles in just ten minutes with no active cooking required
- A simple olive oil coating keeps the flavors bright and clean
What you’ll need
- 2 cups (300g) grilled chicken breast, sliced Use cooled or room-temperature cooked chicken sliced into neat, bite-sized strips.
- 4 cups (200g) romaine lettuce, chopped Rinse thoroughly and spin completely dry so the olive oil coats the leaves instead of slipping off.
- 1 cup (150g) fresh peach slices Choose ripe peaches that yield slightly to gentle pressure without being overly soft.
- 1/4 cup (40g) pumpkin seeds Shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas) distribute easily and give a solid crunch.
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil A good-quality extra virgin olive oil provides smooth body and subtle fruity notes.
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What to have nearby
- Large salad bowl
- Chef's knife and cutting board
- Salad tongs
Step-by-step instructions
Putting this bowl together is all about layering for texture. Coat the sturdy romaine greens first so every bite is seasoned, then arrange the heavier components across the surface rather than tossing everything into a heavy mix.
- 1Step 1
Toss chopped romaine with olive oil in a large bowl.
- 2Step 2
Arrange sliced grilled chicken and fresh peach slices on top of the greens.
- 3Step 3
Sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the salad to add crunch.
- 4Step 4
Serve immediately while fresh.
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A few things worth knowing
- Toss the romaine thoroughly with the olive oil before adding toppings to ensure even coverage across the greens.
- Distribute the sliced chicken and peach wedges over the top rather than tossing them in, which keeps the fruit intact.
- Scatter the pumpkin seeds last right before bringing the bowl to the table so they retain maximum crispness.
Ways to make it your own
- Garnish with a gentle pinch of cracked black pepper over the sliced chicken.
- Serve arranged on a wide platter for a shareable family-style presentation.
Serving suggestions
Plate this salad immediately while the romaine is crisp and the fruit is freshly sliced. It pairs naturally alongside toasted sourdough slices, warm focaccia, or a cup of chilled vegetable soup for a balanced lunch.
Storage & reheating
Assemble only what you plan to eat right away, as dressed romaine and sliced peaches soften quickly. If preparing components ahead, store the sliced grilled chicken, chopped dry greens, and sliced peaches in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator, assembling with the oil and pumpkin seeds just before eating.
Nutrition notes
Nutrition is provided as a general estimate for the listed recipe. Brands, exact portions, and ingredient swaps can change the numbers.
Quick recipe answers
Can I use warm grilled chicken on this salad?+
It is best to let the chicken cool to room temperature or chill it slightly before adding it, as hot chicken will wilt the delicate romaine leaves.
Should I peel the peaches before slicing?+
Peeling is optional; thin peach skin adds color and holds the slices together nicely, but you can remove it if you prefer a softer texture.
With juicy fruit, savory chicken, and satisfying crunch in every forkful, this simple assembly makes the most of fresh seasonal produce with minimal effort.
Peach Chicken Romaine Salad with Pumpkin Seeds
Crisp romaine salad layered with tender sliced grilled chicken, juicy fresh peaches, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and a light coat of olive oil.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (300g) grilled chicken breast, sliced
- 4 cups (200g) romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup (150g) fresh peach slices
- 1/4 cup (40g) pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
Instructions
- Toss chopped romaine with olive oil in a large bowl.
- Arrange sliced grilled chicken and fresh peach slices on top of the greens.
- Sprinkle pumpkin seeds over the salad to add crunch.
- Serve immediately while fresh.
Nutrition
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