Chicken salad is a delightful dish, brimming with vibrant flavors and textures that can easily satisfy your cravings. The combination of tender grilled chicken, juicy peaches, and creamy avocado creates a refreshing symphony on the palate. Accompanying this mix is a homemade raspberry dressing that shines with a burst of fruity brightness. Franklin House’s original recipe inspires this take, offering a splendid alternative to grocery store versions, which often rely too much on additives and sugars. The flavors of the season come alive in this dish that’s not only comforting but also visually appealing.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing

Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing

When I first discovered the magic of combining sweet peaches with savory chicken, I was astounded by how well they complemented each other. As the seasons change, this Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing has become a staple in my home. It’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner and always leaves everyone asking for more. Based on a balance of flavors, not to mention easy to prepare, I am confident you’ll find yourself making this regularly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Everything comes together in just 30 minutes!
Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of the raspberries combined with the savory elements offers a taste explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors of the ingredients make this salad a feast for the eyes!
Flexible Serving: Ideal for lunch, dinner, or a special occasion—serve it up anytime!
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Ingredients You’ll Need

6 oz fresh raspberries: For a rich and tangy dressing; they burst with flavor. If raspberries are unavailable, pureed strawberries can work well too.
1/4 cup olive oil: This adds richness to the dressing, balancing the tartness of the raspberries. Avocado oil can be a lighter alternative.
2 tablespoons lime juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dressing and enhances the salad flavors. For a twist, lemon juice could substitute.
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: This tangy complement to the dressing elevates its complexity. You can replace it with apple cider vinegar if needed.
1 tablespoon honey: A touch of natural sweetness that counteracts acidity. Maple syrup can work for a vegan option.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all flavors—it’s essential for balance. Regular table salt is a suitable substitute.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and depth. If you want to up the spice, try fresh cracked pepper.
5 oz arugula: Its peppery flavor adds great contrast to the sweetness of the peaches. Spinach can be substituted for a milder taste.
2 cups chopped grilled chicken or shredded chicken: Packed with protein and essential for the salad’s heartiness. Leftover rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut!
2 peaches, sliced: Fresh, juicy peaches aren’t just delicious—they bring a touch of summer to your plate! Nectarines could also work in their place.
1 cup cooked farro: This nutty grain adds texture and nutrients. You may use quinoa or brown rice as a gluten-free alternative.
1 cup diced cucumber: Adds crunch and freshness. Use English cucumbers for fewer seeds or any variety you prefer.
1 avocado, sliced: Creaminess that elevates the salad experience. If you’re looking for a break from avocado, consider diced mango for a twist.
1/2 cup sliced almonds: For a delightful crunch and healthy fats. If allergies are a concern, sunflower seeds are a perfect substitute.
1/3 cup feta cheese: Its salty creaminess rounds out the dish. If you want a vegan option, try crumbled tofu seasoned with nutritional yeast.
1/4 cup sliced red onion: Adds a sharp bite that contrasts with the sweetness. Sweet onions can be used if you prefer a milder flavor profile.

How to Make Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing

Prepare the Dressing: Begin by mashing 6 oz fresh raspberries in a medium bowl using a fork until smooth. This ensures that the dressing has a lovely texture.
Combine Ingredients: Add 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to the mashed raspberries. Whisk them together until fully combined; expect a slightly thick dressing.
Assemble the Salad: In a large serving bowl or on a platter, combine 5 oz arugula, 2 cups chopped grilled chicken or shredded chicken, 1 cup cooked farro, 1 cup diced cucumber, 2 sliced peaches, 1 sliced avocado, 1/2 cup sliced almonds, 1/3 cup feta cheese, and 1/4 cup sliced red onion.
Serve: Drizzle the fresh raspberry dressing over the salad mixture just before serving to maintain freshness and serve immediately for the best taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover chicken salad with peaches, avocado, and fresh raspberry dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you need to store the dressing separately, it can last for about a week in the fridge as well. While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, if you want to keep the salad longer, try freezing the chicken and peach components separately for up to three months. To refresh the salad after refrigeration, simply serve it chilled or gently toss it back together; it may lose some crunch but will still taste delightful!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To prevent browning, squeeze a bit of lime juice on the avocado right after slicing.
If your dressing is too thick, simply whisk in a little water to reach your desired consistency.
When selecting peaches, opt for those that yield slightly to pressure for optimal ripeness.
Allow the farro to cool to room temperature before adding it to the salad for the best texture.
You can prep the salad ingredients ahead of time and toss them together just before serving for convenience.

This Chicken Salad with Peaches, Avocado & Fresh Raspberry Dressing presents a balanced mix of flavors and textures that makes it a delightful meal. Feel free to experiment with seasonal ingredients, perhaps trying different fruits or nuts based on what’s available. Enjoy each vibrant, fresh bite, and share this salad with friends and family—you’ll be rewarded with smiles and satisfaction every time!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the raspberry dressing can be made up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good shake or whisk before using, as it may thicken when chilled.

What can I substitute for farro?

If you’re looking for gluten-free options, quinoa or brown rice are excellent substitutions. Both provide a similar texture and nutty flavor to the salad.

How can I make this salad lower in calories?

To reduce calories, you can cut back on the almonds and feta cheese or use a lighter version of those ingredients. Additionally, using a sugar-free alternative for the honey can help.

What is the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?

Grilling or baking the chicken is recommended as it adds flavor and keeps it juicy. A simple seasoning with salt, pepper, and a dash of olive oil works great. If you have leftovers from a previous meal, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!