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, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. Packed with grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh veggies, and a quick honey dijon dressing, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. It fits well into various occasions, from casual family meals to elegant gatherings. The standout quality here is its versatility and ease of preparation, ensuring you’ll enjoy a nutritious meal without fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of grilled chicken and honey dijon dressing adds a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables or proteins based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Healthy and Nutritious: This salad is gluten-free, dairy-free, low-carb, and packed with protein, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead for busy weeknights or pack it for a work lunch; it holds up well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth. Having everything ready will save time and help you enjoy cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like the honey dijon dressing without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Helps ensure all dressing ingredients are well blended for maximum flavor.
• Knife & cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and slicing cooked chicken effortlessly.

Ingredients

This grilled chicken Cobb salad is packed with all the goodies! Perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, crispy Turkey 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 Chicken 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 grilling)

For the Salad

• 8 cups chopped romaine (or 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 Turkey Bacon (cooked until crisp)
• 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 grilled chicken Cobb salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine melted raw honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, avocado oil, and sea salt.
2. Whisk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In another bowl:
1. Mix sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Rub this mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Heat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add avocado oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
4. Remove from heat and allow resting before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl:
1. Layer chopped romaine greens as a base.
2. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber slices, avocado slices, crispy turkey bacon pieces, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
3. Finally, add sliced grilled chicken on top.

Step 5: Drizzle Dressing & Serve

Drizzle your prepared honey dijon dressing over the assembled salad just before serving. Toss gently if desired to combine flavors evenly. Enjoy your vibrant Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad!

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

This grilled chicken Cobb salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Individual Bowls

• Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch. Each bowl can have the same ingredients, allowing guests to enjoy their own customized portions.

Family Style

• Present the salad ingredients on a large platter. Let everyone build their own plate, choosing their favorite toppings and dressing amounts. This method encourages interaction and allows for customization.

Meal Prep Containers

• For a healthy week ahead, prepare individual servings in meal prep containers. Layer the ingredients to keep them fresh, adding the dressing just before eating for optimal taste.

Picnic Style

• Pack the salad in mason jars for a picnic outing. Layer the ingredients starting with dressing at the bottom to avoid sogginess. Just shake and enjoy when you’re ready!

Party Platter

• Create a large party platter by combining all ingredients on one big tray. This visually appealing presentation is perfect for gatherings and makes it easy for guests to serve themselves.

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

To achieve the best results with your grilled chicken Cobb salad, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh greens and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
• Season Chicken Well: Use ample seasoning on your chicken before grilling to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Cook Bacon Until Crisp: Ensure your Turkey Turkey Bacon is cooked until crisp for added texture in your salad.
• Slice Ingredients Uniformly: Cut veggies and chicken into similar sizes for an attractive presentation and easier eating.
• Dress Right Before Serving: Drizzle your honey dijon dressing just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
• Experiment with Greens: While romaine is classic, feel free to mix in kale or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

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 the meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection adds flavor and nutrition.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the salad’s flavors while adding protein.
3. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower provides a low-carb alternative that pairs well with any salad.
4. Sweet Potato Wedges: Baked sweet potato wedges are a healthy side that adds sweetness and fiber to your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice enhances hydration while keeping things light.
6. Baked Zucchini Chips: Crunchy baked zucchini chips offer a satisfying texture contrast without added carbs.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains and vegetables make an appealing side dish full of flavor.
8. Simple Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits brings sweetness and freshness that balances out savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To create the perfect Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}, watch out for these common mistakes.

• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and spices to elevate your dish.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and unappealing. Grill or pan-sear until just cooked through; it should still be juicy.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old veggies can ruin your salad. Choose fresh, vibrant produce for the best taste and texture.
• Ignoring dressing balance: Too much honey or mustard can overpower the salad. Aim for a balanced dressing by adjusting proportions to suit your taste.
• Assembling too early: Assembling the salad too far in advance can make it soggy. Keep components separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor.
• If necessary, only freeze the grilled chicken separately.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking tray and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed, and warm the chicken while stirring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} healthy?

This salad is packed with lean protein from chicken and healthy fats from avocado, making it nutritious and filling without unnecessary carbs.

Can I customize my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences while keeping it deliciously healthy.

How do I make the honey dijon dressing?

Simply combine melted raw honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, avocado oil, and sea salt for a quick dressing.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is great for meal prep. Store each component separately and assemble when ready to eat for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various greens or toppings based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s a family favorite that everyone will love!