Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s a delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring tender grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and a sweet-tangy honey Dijon dressing. Whether it’s a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad is sure to impress family and friends. Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it easy for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Dressing: The honey Dijon dressing is simple yet elevates the entire dish with its sweet and tangy notes.
• Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad keeps you satisfied without weighing you down.
• Versatile Options: You can easily customize the greens or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.
• Diet-Friendly: Suitable for paleo and Whole30 diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad, gather essential tools that will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides a smoky flavor to the chicken while giving it beautiful grill marks.
• Knife: Ensures clean cuts for slicing vegetables and cooked chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the honey Dijon dressing quickly.

Ingredients

For this flavorful salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Honey Dijon Dressing

• 3 Tbsp raw honey (melted if solid)
• 1/4 cup dijon mustard
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
• 1/4 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt

For the Salad

• 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil (for the grill or pan)
• 8 cups chopped romaine (or other greens)
• 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium cucumber (peeled and sliced)
• 1 large avocado (thinly sliced)
• 8 slices turkey bacon (cooked until crisp, chopped)
• 6 hard boiled eggs (sliced)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Melted honey
2. Dijon mustard
3. Lemon juice or vinegar
4. Avocado oil
5. Sea salt

Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with:
1. Sea salt
2. Black pepper
3. Garlic powder
4. Onion powder

Drizzle with avocado oil before grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add seasoned chicken breasts to the hot grill.
3. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Remove from heat and allow to rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl:
1. Start with chopped romaine as the base.
2. Layer in cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado slices, turkey bacon pieces, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
3. Top with sliced grilled chicken.

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing

Pour your prepared honey Dijon dressing over the salad just before serving for maximum freshness!

Enjoy your deliciously vibrant Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

Serving your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is all about enhancing its flavors and presentation. Here are some delightful ways to serve this healthy dish.

With Extra Dressing

• Honey Dijon Drizzle – Serve extra honey dijon dressing on the side for those who love a bit more flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Base – For a lighter option, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens instead of romaine.

Add a Crunch Element

• Croutons or Nuts – If not strictly Paleo or Whole30, consider adding homemade croutons or toasted nuts for added texture.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa or Brown Rice – For those who enjoy grains, offer quinoa or brown rice as a side for added heartiness.

Family Style Serving

• Large Bowl Presentation – Serve in a large bowl for family-style dining where everyone can help themselves.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon takes just a few thoughtful tweaks. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning – Use generous amounts of sea salt and pepper on the chicken to enhance its flavor before grilling.
• Fresh Ingredients – Always choose fresh and organic ingredients for the best taste and nutritional value in your salad.
• Chill Your Ingredients – For a refreshing bite, chill your vegetables and salad before serving.
• Customize Your Toppings – Feel free to swap out toppings based on what you have; try different vegetables or proteins!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

To complement your delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon, consider these tasty side dishes. They provide balance and variety to your meal.

1. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
2. Zucchini Noodles – Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles tossed with olive oil make an excellent low-carb side.
3. Cauliflower Rice – A great substitute for traditional rice; it absorbs flavors well while keeping carbs low.
4. Fruit Salad – A mix of fresh fruits provides natural sweetness and contrasts nicely against the savory salad.
5. Deviled Eggs – These classic appetizers echo the hard-boiled eggs in the salad while offering an extra protein boost.
6. Sweet Potato Wedges – Baked sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the honey dijon dressing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling a chicken Cobb salad can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the chicken can result in bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to keep it juicy.
• Using old ingredients: Freshness matters! Ensure all vegetables and proteins are fresh for the best flavor and texture in your grilled chicken Cobb salad.
• Neglecting the dressing: A common mistake is not preparing enough honey Dijon dressing. This adds essential flavor, so double the recipe if you love dressing!
• Not balancing textures: A good Cobb salad should have a mix of crunch and creaminess. Include crispy bacon and creamy avocado for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

• It’s best to freeze only the grilled chicken separately.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Consume within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place salad in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add some oil if necessary, and sauté the chicken pieces until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}.

Can I use different greens in my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?

Yes! You can substitute romaine with kale or any other greens you prefer for added nutrients and flavor.

How can I customize my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad?

Feel free to add other toppings such as bell peppers, radishes, or nuts. This salad is versatile!

Is this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store components separately to maintain freshness until you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have honey?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re looking for alternatives in your dressing.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. With its combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors from the honey dijon dressing, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your preferences or seasonal ingredients! Enjoy this refreshing meal any day of the week.

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Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is a delicious and nutritious dish perfect for any meal. This vibrant salad features tender, grilled chicken paired with crispy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Drizzled with a sweet and tangy honey Dijon dressing, this dish brings together an exciting mix of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. Gluten-free and customizable for paleo or Whole30 diets, this salad not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports a health-conscious lifestyle. With quick preparation in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 large avocado
• 8 slices turkey bacon
• 6 hard-boiled eggs
• 3 Tbsp raw honey (melted if solid)
• 1/4 cup dijon mustard
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice or white vinegar
• 1/4 cup avocado oil
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil (for the grill or pan)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium cucumber (peeled and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare the honey Dijon dressing by whisking together melted honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice, avocado oil, and sea salt in a mixing bowl.
2. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder; drizzle with avocado oil before grilling.
3. Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
4. In a large serving bowl, layer chopped romaine lettuce with cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado slices, chopped turkey bacon, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and sliced grilled chicken.
5. Drizzle with honey Dijon dressing just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 40g
• Cholesterol: 370mg