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

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. With juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and a zesty honey dijon dressing, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch or a light dinner, this salad meets all your needs while being gluten-free and low-carb. It’s not just a meal; it’s a family favorite that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with delicious flavors from the honey dijon dressing and seasoned chicken.
• Versatile Meal Option: Great for lunch or dinner, this salad can easily adapt to suit any season.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it supports a balanced diet without sacrificing taste.
• Family Friendly: Kids love the tasty ingredients, while adults appreciate the health benefits.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes prepping ingredients and assembling the salad much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Perfect for achieving those savory grill marks on the chicken while enhancing flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients when making the honey dijon dressing quickly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing vegetables and chicken for an appealing presentation.

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! This Cobb salad makes a healthy, hearty, low carb meal that’s gluten-free, paleo, dairy-free, and a family favorite!

For the 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 (kale or other greens, or a mix)
• 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 and chopped)
• 6 hard-boiled eggs (sliced)

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

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine 3 Tbsp melted raw honey with 1/4 cup dijon mustard.
2. Add 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice or white vinegar.
3. Pour in 1/4 cup avocado oil along with 1/4 tsp sea salt.
4. Whisk together until smooth.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

For the chicken:
1. Season 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts with 1 tsp sea salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp onion powder.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

On medium-high heat:
1. Heat 1 Tbsp avocado oil in your grill or pan.
2. Cook seasoned chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl:
1. Add 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce.
2. Layer in the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, peeled cucumber slices, and thinly sliced avocado.
3. Chop cooked turkey bacon into pieces and scatter over the top along with sliced hard-boiled eggs.

Step 5: Dress It Up!

Drizzle your homemade honey dijon dressing over the assembled salad just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

Enjoy your vibrant and nutritious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon!

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 the flavors while keeping it fresh and appealing. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this delicious salad.

For a Family Meal

• Serve in Individual Bowls: Present each serving in a bowl for a personal touch. This makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their portion.
• Add Extra Dressing: Offer additional honey Dijon dressing on the side for those who love extra flavor.

As a Picnic Delight

• Pack in Mason Jars: Layer the ingredients in mason jars for a fun picnic option. Start with the dressing at the bottom and finish with greens on top.
• Bring Along Whole Grain Crackers: Pair the salad with whole grain crackers for a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.

For Meal Prep

• Store Separately: Keep the dressing separate from the salad until ready to eat. This ensures everything stays fresh and crisp.
• Use Airtight Containers: Portion out servings in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.

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

Achieving the perfect grilled chicken Cobb salad comes down to using fresh ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your salad game.

• Bold Seasoning: Use ample seasoning on your chicken before grilling to enhance its flavor. A mix of sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder works wonders.
• Fresh Greens: Opt for freshly chopped romaine or mixed greens; they provide the best texture and taste.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken breasts are cooked through but not overcooked to maintain juiciness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Crisp Turkey Bacon: Cook turkey bacon until it’s crisp; this adds texture and flavor contrast to the salad.
• Cool Ingredients Before Serving: Let the grilled chicken rest before slicing it, allowing juices to redistribute and keep it tender.
• Vibrant Toppings: Include colorful toppings like cherry tomatoes and avocado to make the dish visually appealing as well as delicious.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad can enhance your meal’s nutrition and flavor profile. Below are some excellent options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Seasoned and roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast that pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf mixed with herbs provides a nutty flavor and additional protein without overpowering the main dish.
3. Vegetable Sticks and Hummus: Fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers served with hummus make for a crunchy, satisfying side.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and lemon juice adds freshness while keeping it low-carb.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with balsamic vinegar introduces an earthy flavor that balances well with the salad’s richness.
6. Chickpea Salad: A simple chickpea salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley adds protein and fiber while being refreshing on the palate.
7. Cauliflower Rice: Seasoned cauliflower rice is low-carb yet provides bulk, making it a great filling side option alongside your salad.
8. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice blend add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}, avoiding common mistakes can help ensure a delicious outcome.

• Bold Ingredients Selection: Using stale or low-quality ingredients can compromise the flavor. Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken.
• Bold Overcooking Chicken: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect juiciness.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly leads to bland flavors. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, and spices; they are crucial for taste.
• Bold Preparing Dressing in Advance: Making the dressing too early can change its texture. Prepare it just before serving for optimal freshness and flavor.
• Bold Ignoring Texture Variety: A lack of textural contrast can make the salad less enjoyable. Include crispy ingredients like Turkey Bacon and crunchy veggies for a satisfying bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal quality.

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

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without dressing for up to 2 months.
• When freezing, separate components to maintain texture.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common queries regarding the Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}.

Can I use other meats in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute grilled turkey or beef if you prefer those proteins instead of chicken.

What greens work best for this Cobb salad?

Romaine is traditional, but feel free to mix in kale or your favorite leafy greens for added nutrients.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is perfect for meal prep; just store the dressing separately until serving.

How do I customize the honey dijon dressing?

You can adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference. Adding herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor too!

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it to suit your tastes by adding different vegetables or using various proteins. Give it a try – it’s a tasty way to enjoy healthy eating!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is a vibrant, nutritious dish perfect for any meal. Featuring juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and a zesty honey dijon dressing, this salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Ideal for both lunch and dinner, it caters to various dietary preferences being gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with protein. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large avocado
• 8 slices crispy turkey bacon
• 6 hard-boiled eggs
• 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 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)
• 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 medium cucumber (peeled and sliced)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing by whisking together melted honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, avocado oil, and sea salt in a mixing bowl until smooth.
2. Season the chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Grill the seasoned chicken on medium-high heat for about 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked through.
4. In a large serving bowl, layer chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber slices, avocado slices, chopped turkey bacon, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
5. Drizzle the honey dijon dressing over the salad just before serving and toss gently.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (about 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 32g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 43g
• Cholesterol: 370mg