This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is your ultimate go-to meal for any occasion! With its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this salad delivers on nutrition and taste. The combination of grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a simple honey Dijon dressing makes it a delightful option that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: This salad is loaded with lean protein and fresh veggies, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Quick and Easy: With prep taking just 15 minutes and cooking only 10 minutes, you can whip this up in no time!
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the delicious flavors in this hearty salad.
- Dietary Friendly: This recipe fits perfectly into Paleo and Whole30 diets, ensuring everyone can indulge without guilt.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this delicious salad, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Perfect for getting that smoky flavor on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your dressing ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Whisk: Ensures your honey Dijon dressing is well blended for maximum flavor.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables effortless and safe.
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)
- 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)
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 the melted honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), avocado oil, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In another bowl, season your chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat them evenly.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large serving bowl or platter:
1. Layer in chopped romaine or greens.
2. Add halved cherry tomatoes.
3. Sprinkle thinly sliced red onion.
4. Top with cucumber slices.
5. Arrange sliced avocado around the edge.
6. Add crispy turkey bacon pieces.
7. Finally, place sliced hard-boiled eggs on top.
Step 5: Serve
Drizzle the prepared honey Dijon dressing over the salad just before serving for freshness! Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad as a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}
Serving a Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is simple yet delightful. This salad not only looks appealing but also offers a burst of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Individual Bowls
- Serve each portion in a bowl for easy eating and customization. This allows everyone to add their favorite ingredients.
Family Style
- Present the salad on a large platter, letting guests help themselves. This encourages sharing and conversation around the meal.
With Extra Dressing
- Offer additional honey Dijon dressing on the side for those who love extra flavor. It can enhance each bite and keep the salad fresh.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and added freshness. It makes the dish visually appealing as well.
Pair with Bread
- Serve alongside gluten-free bread or paleo-friendly options for those who want to enjoy some carbs. It complements the meal perfectly.
How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}
To achieve the best results with your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every element shines in this delicious dish.
- Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken breasts to marinate in spices for at least 30 minutes enhances their flavor and tenderness.
- Cook Bacon Until Crispy: Ensure your turkey bacon is cooked until crispy for a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of other ingredients.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and greens make a significant difference in taste and texture. Always choose ripe tomatoes and avocados.
- Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to tweak the honey Dijon dressing by adding more honey or vinegar according to your preference for sweetness or acidity.
- Chill Ingredients Before Serving: Keeping your salad chilled helps maintain freshness and enhances flavors, especially during warm weather.
- Layer Ingredients Strategically: When assembling, layer heavier items like chicken at the bottom to prevent delicate greens from wilting.
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 balanced meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of your salad beautifully.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a satisfying texture, making them an excellent option alongside your salad.
- Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that pairs well without overwhelming the main dish.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the creamy avocado in your salad.
- Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb side that can be spiced up or served plain; it absorbs flavors well if mixed with seasonings.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley adds sweetness and is an excellent palate cleanser after enjoying your savory salad.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies can cut through richness while adding crunch; they offer an interesting flavor contrast when enjoyed together.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp texture and earthiness that enhances overall meal satisfaction.
- Hummus and Veggie Platter: This is perfect for snacking before or after dinner, offering healthy options while keeping within paleo or Whole30 guidelines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a grilled chicken Cobb salad, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Using the Wrong Greens: Not all greens work well in a Cobb salad. Stick with hearty greens like romaine or kale that can hold up against the dressing and toppings.
- Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken will lead to bland flavors. Be sure to season your chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before grilling.
- Rushing the Dressing: A rushed dressing can lack flavor. Take your time to mix the honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice, and avocado oil thoroughly for a balanced taste.
- Not Allowing Ingredients to Chill: Serving warm ingredients in a salad can change its texture. Allow cooked ingredients like chicken and bacon to cool before adding them to your salad.
- Forgetting the Avocado: The avocado adds creaminess and flavor. Make sure you include it for a perfect balance in your Cobb salad.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled chicken Cobb salad in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Freezing Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}
- Freezing is not recommended for salads as fresh ingredients do not freeze well.
- If you must freeze, consider freezing only grilled chicken separately.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags and label with the date; it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish; cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and warm the chicken for about 5-7 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time. Just store them separately until serving to keep everything fresh.
What makes this salad Paleo and Whole30 compliant?
This grilled chicken Cobb salad is made without dairy or processed ingredients, using whole foods such as fresh vegetables, grilled chicken, and a homemade honey dijon dressing.
How do I customize my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?
Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences! You could include items like bell peppers, different types of cheese (if not strict Paleo), or other protein sources like shrimp or tofu.
What should I serve with this salad?
This hearty salad is filling on its own but pairs well with whole grain bread or gluten-free crackers if desired.
Final Thoughts
The grilled chicken Cobb salad with honey dijon is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s an ideal meal for lunch or dinner that fits various dietary needs. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional proteins! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is a vibrant and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful salad features juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, all topped off with a tangy honey Dijon dressing. Bursting with fresh vegetables like romaine, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, it not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps you feeling full and energized. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this salad is a health-conscious choice that everyone will love. Plus, it fits perfectly within Paleo and Whole30 guidelines, making it guilt-free indulgence!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups chopped romaine
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 large avocado
- 8 slices turkey bacon
- 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 (for chicken)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (for chicken)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for chicken)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder (for chicken)
- 1 Tbsp avocado oil (for grilling)
- 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 medium cucumber (peeled and sliced)
- 6 hard boiled eggs (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the honey Dijon dressing by whisking together melted honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, avocado oil, and sea salt in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Season chicken breasts with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let rest before slicing.
- In a large serving bowl or platter, layer chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber slices, crispy turkey bacon pieces, sliced hard-boiled eggs, and sliced avocado.
- Drizzle the honey Dijon dressing over the assembled salad just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 340g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in your favorite spices for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling. Adjust the dressing to taste by adding more honey for sweetness or vinegar for acidity. Serve individual portions in bowls or family-style on a large platter to encourage sharing.
