This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is fresh and packed with flavor! It features juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, all topped with a yummy honey Dijon dressing.
I love how colorful this salad is—it feels like I’m eating a rainbow! Plus, it’s quick to put together, which is perfect for busy days. Enjoy it for lunch or dinner; it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Grilled Chicken: Chicken breasts are great for grilling because they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use bone-in thighs for more flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a time saver.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine provides a nice crunchy texture. If you’re looking for an alternative, iceberg or mixed greens can work nicely. Just make sure they are fresh!
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess to the salad. If avocados are not in season, you can substitute with diced mango or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy element.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives a smoky, salty flavor. If you want a healthier option, try turkey bacon, or for vegetarian, use crispy chickpeas for crunch.
Honey Dijon Dressing: This dressing is sweet and tangy. You can substitute maple syrup for honey if you’re vegan, or use a store-bought dressing to save time if you’re short on ingredients.
How Do You Grill Perfect Chicken for a Salad?
Grilling chicken without it drying out can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure it stays juicy and full of flavor:
- Start by bringing your chicken to room temperature before grilling – about 15-20 minutes out of the fridge helps it cook evenly.
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper or your favorite spices.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F, for those nice grill marks.
- Grill for 6-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – it should read 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and keeps it tender.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad With Honey Dijon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 grilled chicken breasts, sliced
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
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 20 minutes to prepare, including cooking the chicken. You’ll spend a few minutes making the dressing and then assembling everything into a lovely salad. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grilled Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it’s fully cooked through. Once done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into pieces.
2. Make the Honey Dijon Dressing:
While the chicken is resting, grab a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until everything is well mixed and emulsified. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Set the dressing aside for later.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Now it’s time to create your salad masterpiece! In a large bowl or platter, start with the chopped Romaine lettuce as your base. This will hold all the vibrant colors and flavors of the salad.
4. Add Ingredients:
Next, place the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, crumbled bacon, and sliced grilled chicken in separate sections on top of the lettuce. This not only looks beautiful but also allows everyone to see the ingredients clearly.
5. Drizzle with Dressing:
When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad. If you like, you can toss the salad gently to mix the flavors, or keep it layered for a stunning presentation!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is ready! Enjoy it fresh, and feel free to add more dressing if you’d like. Adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy this refreshing, satisfying meal!
Can I Use Store-Bought Grilled Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked, store-bought grilled chicken can save you time. Just slice it up and toss it into the salad as you would with the homemade grilled chicken. If it’s refrigerated, make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a bit to avoid a cold salad experience!
What Can I Substitute for the Honey in the Dressing?
If you’re looking for a substitute, maple syrup works great in this dressing! You can also use agave nectar for a vegan option. Just use the same amount as honey for a similar sweetness.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad and Dressing?
Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad can last up to 2 days, but it’s best eaten fresh to avoid wilting. The dressing can last about a week in the fridge. Just give it a good shake before using again!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients like bell peppers, corn, or even nuts for added crunch! Just make sure to adjust the amount of dressing if you add more ingredients to keep it flavorful.
