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

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. It combines juicy grilled chicken, crispy Turkey Bacon, and fresh veggies, all drizzled with a quick honey dijon dressing. This salad is perfect for lunch or dinner, catering to various dietary preferences while remaining deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from chicken and eggs, plus healthy fats from avocado, it keeps you full and nourished.
• Versatile Option: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish; it fits any occasion from family dinners to picnics.
• Diet-Friendly: This salad is gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be easily adapted for paleo or Whole30 diets.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of honey dijon dressing and seasoned chicken makes every bite a delicious experience.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides the perfect method for cooking chicken evenly while adding those sought-after grill marks.
• Mixing bowls: Ideal for preparing dressings or tossing ingredients together without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for veggies and proteins, enhancing presentation.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface for chopping ingredients, helping to avoid accidents in the kitchen.

Ingredients

This grilled chicken Cobb salad is packed with all the goodies! Perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, crispy Turkey Bacon, sliced eggs and avocado plus an easy and delicious honey dijon dressing that’s ready in under a minute!

• 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
• 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 (kale or other greens)
• 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 med 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

First, combine the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
* 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

Whisk everything together until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

While preparing the dressing, season your chicken breasts. Rub them with:
* 1 tsp sea salt
* 1/2 tsp black pepper
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp onion powder

Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add:
* 1 Tbsp avocado oil

Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, layer:
* 8 cups chopped romaine (or greens of choice)
* Sliced grilled chicken
Add:
* 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
* 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
* 1 med cucumber (peeled and sliced)
* Sliced avocado
Top with:
* Crumbled Turkey Bacon
And finally:
* Sliced hard boiled eggs

Drizzle with your prepared honey dijon dressing before serving. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad!

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

Serving a grilled chicken Cobb salad is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to suit your dining needs. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.

For a Light Lunch

• Serve in Bowls: Place individual portions in bowls for a casual lunch setting.
• Add Whole30 Compliant Bread: Pair with gluten-free or Whole30 compliant bread on the side.

As a Dinner Entrée

• Plate Elegantly: Arrange the salad on large plates, ensuring vibrant colors are visible.
• Accompany with Wine: A light white wine can enhance the flavors beautifully.

For Meal Prep

• Use Mason Jars: Layer ingredients in mason jars for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
• Keep Dressing Separate: Store the honey dijon dressing in a small container to prevent sogginess.

At a BBQ or Potluck

• Serve Family Style: Present the salad in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
• Offer Extra Toppings: Provide additional toppings like nuts or seeds for personalization.

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

To make your grilled chicken Cobb salad truly exceptional, consider these simple tips that will elevate your dish.

• Bold Marinade: Marinate your chicken breasts overnight for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh produce to ensure vibrant colors and optimal taste.
• Perfectly Cooked Bacon: Cook Turkey bacon until crispy for the best texture and taste.
• Customize Greens: Experiment with different greens like arugula or spinach for added nutrition.
• Adjust Dressing Sweetness: Modify the amount of honey based on your personal preference for sweetness.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge before serving to enhance flavors.

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

Pairing side dishes with your grilled chicken Cobb salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil and herbs adds warmth and flavor.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness.
3. Cauliflower Rice: Lightly seasoned cauliflower rice makes a great low-carb alternative to traditional grains.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Fresh zucchini noodles can serve as a fun, veggie-packed side option.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the savory elements of the main dish.
6. Guacamole and Chips: Serve homemade guacamole with baked tortilla chips for an added snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you use enough salt and spices to enhance the taste before grilling.
• Using overcooked eggs: Overcooking hard-boiled eggs can make them rubbery. To avoid this, boil them for about 9-12 minutes, then cool them quickly in ice water.
• Skipping the dressing prep: A flavorful honey dijon dressing is key for this salad. Don’t skip this step! Whisk together honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice, and oil for a quick sauce.
• Choosing low-quality greens: Using wilted or old greens can ruin your salad’s freshness. Opt for crisp romaine or mixed greens to ensure a vibrant meal.
• Neglecting texture variety: A good Cobb salad should have varied textures. Combine crunchy ingredients like bacon and cucumber with creamy avocado and eggs for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep the salad separate from the dressing to prevent sogginess.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

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

• It’s not recommended to freeze salads with fresh ingredients like lettuce and avocado.
• If you must freeze, consider only freezing grilled chicken separately.
• Use freezer-safe containers and label with date.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil if necessary, and sauté the chicken until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon ahead of time?

You can prepare most components ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

What can I substitute for Turkey Bacon?

If you’re looking for alternatives, try using lean Canadian bacon or crispy tofu for a vegetarian option that still adds crunch.

How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?

Feel free to add extra toppings like nuts, seeds, or different veggies according to your taste preferences.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad stores well in individual portions, making it perfect for lunch throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is not only delicious but also versatile. With its fresh ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give it a try—your family will love it!