Life Lately & the Summer Chicken Salad I’m Loving ☀️🍑

It’s been a little quiet over here, but for good reason.

The past few weeks have been filled with some additional National Guard duties, work travel, and trying to juggle all the everyday things in between. At home, we’ve had a little one who’s been sick more than healthy lately, and after a whirlwind of appointments, we’ve got surgery scheduled for next week. We’d definitely appreciate any and all positive thoughts for a smooth procedure and quick recovery.

On the bright side, I’ve also been pouring my heart into something that’s been in the making for what seems like years… and I’m so close to finishing my book. I can finally see the finish line, and I cannot wait to share more with all of you.

Even with the chaos, one thing I’ve been trying to do is keep meals simple, fresh, and full of summer flavors.

🌞 This Peach Hot Honey Chicken Salad has been on a winner! Sweet peaches, crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, fresh basil, and just the right kick from hot honey… it’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet.

🍑 Peach Hot Honey Chicken Salad

Ingredients

Chicken Salad

• 3–4 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (can use mayo if you prefer)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or even a really good stone ground)
• 1–2 tablespoons hot honey
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Mix-Ins

• 2 ripe peaches, diced
• 4–5 slices crispy bacon, chopped
• ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
• ⅓ cup toasted or candied pecans (not a fan? try sunflower seeds instead!)
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• Optional: crumbled goat cheese

Directions
🥣 Mix the Greek yogurt (or mayo), Dijon, hot honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

🍗 Stir in the chopped chicken until coated.

🍑 Fold in the peaches, bacon, onion, pecans, and basil.

❄️ Chill for 20-30 minutes if you have time—it tastes even better after the flavors meld together.

There are so many delicious ways to enjoy this chicken salad! My favorites are on a buttery croissant or over a fresh salad, but it’s also amazing on toasted sourdough, stuffed into avocado halves, or served on thick slices of heirloom tomatoes. And if you ask my kids? They’ll tell you the Hawaiian rolls are the only way to eat it. 😊🍑🌻

Tip: No fresh peaches? Swap them for 2 crisp apples (Honeycrisp or Pink Lady are our favorites). The apples add the same refreshing crunch with a slightly sweeter-tart flavor that’s just as delicious.

It’s one of those recipes that feels a little fancy but comes together in just a few minutes.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s one thing you’ve been making on repeat this summer? ☀️💛

Simply Samantha 🌻
Simply Real. Simply Me.