Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for quick grilling. However, you can use thighs if you prefer darker meat or leftover rotisserie chicken for an even faster option.

Bacon: Bacon adds a savory crunch. For a healthier twist, try turkey bacon or even omit it for a vegetarian version. You can also use crispy chickpeas for that crunchy element!

Lettuce: Mixed greens like romaine and kale provide texture. Feel free to swap in spinach or arugula for a different flavor or nutrient boost!

Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess. If you don’t have one, try using hummus or a sprinkle of nuts for a similar rich taste.

Honey: Honey gives the dressing sweetness. For a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup works just as well.

How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?

Grilling chicken can be tricky if you want it juicy but fully cooked. Here’s how to ensure success:

• Start with even thickness: Use a meat mallet to flatten the chicken breasts to cook evenly.
• Season well: Salt and pepper are key, but feel free to add your favorite spices!
• Monitor the heat: Medium-high heat (about 375°F) helps achieve a nice sear without drying out the meat.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

By following these tips and using the suggested substitutions, you’ll create a delicious and healthy Cobb salad every time!

Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 strips bacon
• 6 cups mixed lettuce (romaine and kale)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, sliced
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. You can have a delicious, nutritious salad on the table in about 30 minutes, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and there is no pink left in the center. After grilling, let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juices, then slice thinly.

2. Cooking the Bacon:

In a medium skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until they become crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

3. Making the Dressing:

While the chicken and bacon are cooking, prepare the honey Dijon dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Season it with salt and black pepper to taste. Whisk until all the ingredients are well blended and the dressing becomes creamy.

4. Assembling the Salad:

In a large salad bowl, start by adding the mixed lettuce as your base. Layer the salad with the grilled chicken slices, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, sliced hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon pieces, sliced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion. Arrange them neatly for a beautiful presentation!

5. Serving the Salad:

Just before you’re ready to serve, drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the salad. You can either toss it lightly to combine flavors or leave it as is for a stunning visual display. Enjoy your colorful and refreshing Cobb salad!

This dish is not only full of flavor but also packed with nutrients to keep you satisfied. Perfect for any day of the week!

FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, is a great time-saver. Just shred or slice it and add it to your salad without the need for grilling.

How Do I Store Leftover Salad?

To store leftovers, keep the salad components separate from the dressing. Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The dressing can be stored in a separate jar and should last for about a week in the fridge.

Can I Customize the Salad Ingredients?

Definitely! Feel free to add or swap ingredients based on your preferences. Some great additions include bell peppers, corn, or even cheese like feta or blue cheese. Make it your own!

What Can I Use Instead of Honey in the Dressing?

If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. For a sugar-free option, try a sugar substitute like stevia based on your taste preference.