Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling, but you can substitute with grilled chicken thighs for a juicier option. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time!

Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. If you’re looking for healthier options, turkey bacon or even a vegetarian bacon substitute works well. Just cook until crispy!

Vegetables: Mixed lettuce gives a nice base, but feel free to use what you have on hand—spinach, arugula, or even bagged salad mixes. They all add unique flavors.

Avocado: For a similar taste, you might try using guacamole if you’re in a rush. If avocados are unavailable, sliced mango adds a sweet twist!

Honey Dijon Dressing: Traditional Dijon works best, but if you want a milder taste, use honey mustard. If you’re vegan, mix maple syrup with a bit of mustard and vinegar instead.

How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?

Grilling chicken can be tricky if you want it juicy and tender. Here’s how to get it right:

• Always preheat your grill for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps prevent sticking.
• Brush the chicken with olive oil to keep it moist and add flavor.
• Season generously with salt and pepper before placing it on the grill.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Flip only once or twice for even grilling.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside.

By following these steps, you’ll have delicious grilled chicken for your salad every time!

Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 cups mixed lettuce (such as romaine and kale)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
• 6 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for grilling

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious Cobb salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. With a bit of time for grilling and assembly, you’ll have a fresh meal ready in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

First, heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle some salt and pepper on both sides to taste. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes each side, or until it’s no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear. When done, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

2. Cook the Bacon:

While the chicken is grilling, take a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, place the bacon on some paper towels to soak up extra grease. Chop it into small pieces once it’s cooled a bit.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, mix the Dijon mustard, honey, and vinegar. While whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the dressing is smooth and mixed well. Taste it, and don’t hesitate to add salt and pepper according to your liking!

4. Assemble the Salad:

Grab a large serving bowl or platter and start by layering in the mixed lettuce as the base. Then, arrange the grilled chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, crispy bacon, and red onion slices in beautiful sections over the lettuce.

5. Dress and Serve:

Just before serving, drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad to keep it fresh and crunchy. Or, for a neat presentation, serve the dressing on the side for everyone to add their own. If you like, give it a light toss for some mingling of flavors!

Enjoy this fresh, colorful Cobb salad with the sweet tang of honey Dijon dressing—the perfect balance of flavors and textures!

FAQs for Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Absolutely! If you’re in a time crunch, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred or chop it into pieces and toss it on your salad—no grilling needed!

What Can I Substitute for Bacon?

If you’d prefer a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or even crumbled tofu can work well. For a vegetarian option, try crispy chickpeas seasoned with your favorite spices or some smoky tempeh for that bacon flavor!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the lettuce crisp, you can store the salad and dressing separately and dress it just before you’re ready to eat!

Is There a Way to Make This Salad Vegan?

Yes! You can replace the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas, use a plant-based bacon substitute, and swap out the honey in the dressing with agave or maple syrup for a completely vegan option!