This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is colorful and full of flavor. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado come together with fresh veggies, all drizzled in sweet honey Dijon dressing!
It’s so easy to whip up. Just grill the chicken, toss everything together, and enjoy a tasty meal that looks as good as it tastes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling since they cook evenly. If you prefer, try using chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Romaine lettuce: Romaine is crunchy and perfect for salads. You can swap it with spinach or mixed greens if you want a different texture or flavor. Just remember that some greens might wilt faster.
Cherry tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If out of season, use regular tomatoes chopped into bite-sized pieces, or consider using roasted tomatoes for a different taste.
Avocado: A ripe avocado adds creaminess. If you’re allergic or don’t have one, try using a dollop of Greek yogurt or hummus for a creamy texture.
Honey Dijon Dressing: Dijon mustard gives a nice tang. If you want a lower-carb option, sugar-free honey or agave syrup can be good substitutes for honey. You can also use a different vinegar like white wine vinegar for a milder flavor.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few tips will help you get it just right. Start by letting the chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken nicely.
- Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking and help achieve a nice crust.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side. Check the thickest part to reach that magic 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- Remember to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps it juicy!
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling chicken
For the Honey Dijon Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 25 minutes to prepare. You will spend around 10 minutes grilling the chicken and about 15 minutes assembling the salad and preparing the dressing. It’s a quick meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, season the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and brush them lightly with olive oil. Once the grill is ready, place the chicken on it. Grill each side for about 6-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, quartered hard-boiled eggs, sliced avocado, crumbled bacon, and thinly sliced red onion. Toss everything gently to mix the ingredients together nicely. This salad looks colorful and inviting!
3. Make the Honey Dijon Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until everything is well combined. It should be smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to season your dressing with a little salt and pepper to taste—it really brings all the flavors together!
4. Assemble and Serve:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Slice the grilled chicken into strips and lay it on top of the salad. Drizzle the lovely Honey Dijon dressing over everything, and then toss gently to mix it all. Serve right away, and feel free to add extra bacon or avocado on top if you like. Enjoy your refreshing Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad!
Can I Use Grilled Chicken Leftovers for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly for this salad. Just slice it up and toss it on top of your greens. You can store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it gently to keep it juicy!
What Can I Substitute for the Honey in the Dressing?
If you’d like to replace honey, maple syrup is a great alternative that adds a similar sweetness. If you prefer something less sweet, try agave nectar or even a touch of stevia. Just remember to adjust the amount to taste, as some substitutes can be sweeter than honey!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate to avoid sogginess. Consume within 1-2 days for the best quality. When ready to eat, just drizzle the dressing on fresh greens!
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare most of the salad ingredients ahead of time! Chop the veggies and hard-boil the eggs in advance, and grill the chicken a few hours before serving. Just assemble everything right before eating and add the dressing to keep it fresh!
