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 perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado creates a satisfying meal that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family meal, this salad caters to various dietary needs, being gluten-free and dairy-free. You’ll love the easy-to-make honey dijon dressing that adds a sweet tang to every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Nutrients: With fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice that will keep you energized.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the colorful presentation and delicious flavors.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare in advance for healthy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Ideal for achieving perfectly cooked chicken with those beautiful grill marks.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the dressing, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

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 grilling)
• 8 cups chopped romaine (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 following:
1. Melted raw honey
2. Dijon mustard
3. Lemon juice or vinegar
4. Avocado oil
5. Sea salt

Whisk until blended well. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In another bowl, mix sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture onto the chicken breasts evenly.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil to prevent sticking. Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl or platter:
1. Start with chopped romaine as a base.
2. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber slices, avocado slices, crispy turkey bacon pieces, and hard-boiled egg slices.
3. Finally, add the sliced grilled chicken on top.

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing

Pour your homemade honey dijon dressing over the assembled salad just before serving to maintain crunchiness.

Enjoy this vibrant Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad as a wholesome meal that everyone will love!

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 to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a light lunch, a family dinner, or a potluck gathering, this salad will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

For a Family Dinner

• Serve each individual portion on plates for a more formal dining experience.
• Add extra dressing on the side for those who love a bolder flavor.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Divide the salad into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat to maintain freshness.

For a Potluck Gathering

• Present the salad in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves.
• Consider adding decorative toppings like edible flowers for a beautiful display.

As an Appetizer

• Serve smaller portions in cups or jars for an elegant appetizer option.
• Pair with toothpicks for easy eating at parties or gatherings.

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

To achieve the best results with this grilled chicken Cobb salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Marinate chicken – Soak the chicken breasts in the honey dijon dressing for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This adds depth of flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients – Opt for fresh greens and ripe avocados to elevate the overall taste and texture of your salad.
• Grill chicken properly – Ensure the grill is preheated before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve those perfect grill marks and locks in juices.
• Customize toppings – Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or radishes based on your preference, making it your own unique creation.

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 delicious options that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your plate. Toss them with olive oil and herbs before roasting.
2. Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that can be flavored with spices or herbs, adding another layer of texture and taste.
3. Zucchini Noodles – Light and refreshing, zucchini noodles (or zoodles) can serve as a great base or side dish alongside your salad.
4. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries are not only tasty but also provide a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the honey dijon dressing.
5. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad made with fresh vegetables can serve as a filling side that complements the main dish.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or ground meat make a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a grilled chicken Cobb salad can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using dry chicken: Cooking your chicken too long can leave it dry. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping seasoning on the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper before grilling.
• Overloading with dressing: Adding too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with a small amount of honey dijon dressing and add more as needed.
• Ignoring freshness: Using stale greens or overripe avocados can ruin the salad’s taste. Always choose fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
• Not preparing in advance: Trying to rush can lead to forgotten ingredients. Organize your prep work beforehand to ensure everything is ready when you need it.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

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

• You can freeze grilled chicken separately if desired, but it’s best not to freeze the entire salad.
• Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for optimal flavor.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat chicken for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat chicken in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed, avoiding sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} dairy-free?

You can make this salad dairy-free by simply omitting any cheese if you prefer it traditional. The honey dijon dressing is already dairy-free!

Can I customize the ingredients in my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out ingredients like turkey bacon for another protein or change up the greens based on what you have on hand.

What is the calorie count for Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}?

This salad contains approximately 363 calories per serving, making it a healthy option for lunch or dinner.

Why is this recipe perfect for meal prep?

This recipe is perfect for meal prep because it stores well in individual portions and stays fresh when ingredients are kept separate until serving time.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} is not only delicious but also versatile. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for any meal of the day. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a healthy dish that everyone will love!