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

If you’re looking for a vibrant meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, look no further! This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} has quickly become a family favorite in our home. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado come together beautifully, while the honey dijon dressing adds a sweet tang that ties everything together. Trust me; this salad will impress your loved ones!

Not only is this salad delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. Plus, it’s gluten-free and dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
• Packed with goodness: Every bite is filled with protein and healthy fats that keep you full and energized throughout the day.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the colorful ingredients and tasty dressing. It’s a fun way to get them to eat their veggies!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time for an easy lunch or dinner option during busy weekdays.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make this salad uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option} features fresh produce and lean protein that come together in a delicious way.

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 (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 bacon (cooked until crisp, chopped or crumbled)
• 6 hard boiled eggs (sliced)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily modify it based on what you have on hand or what you like best.

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try grilled shrimp or turkey for a different flavor.
• Change up the greens: Use mixed greens, spinach, or arugula for a new twist on texture and taste.
• Add more crunch: Throw in some nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Experiment with dressings: If you’re feeling adventurous, try a balsamic vinaigrette or tahini dressing instead of honey dijon.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together melted honey, dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), avocado oil, and sea salt. This dressing comes together quickly and adds a delightful sweetness that complements all the savory ingredients in the salad.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step ensures each bite has an explosion of flavor!

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and add avocado oil. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked through. The grilling process gives the chicken a lovely char while keeping it juicy inside.

Step 4: Chop Your Veggies

While your chicken cooks, chop up all your salad veggies: romaine lettuce (or greens of choice), cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado, and hard-boiled eggs. Having everything prepped makes assembling your salad super easy!

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Once the chicken is done grilling and has rested for a few minutes (this keeps it juicy!), slice it into strips. In a large serving bowl or platter, layer your chopped greens first then top with chicken slices, bacon bits, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion rings, avocado slices, and hard-boiled egg pieces.

Step 6: Drizzle with Dressing

Finally, drizzle your homemade honey dijon dressing over the top of your beautiful salad creation! Toss gently if desired to mix everything well.

Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy this delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}—it’s sure to become a staple at your dining table!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}

Creating a delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is easy and fun—just follow these handy tips to make it even better!

• Marinate the chicken: Allowing your chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the seasoning mix amplifies the flavors and keeps it juicy during grilling.
• Use a meat thermometer: Cooking your chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s perfectly cooked without being dry. This small step makes a big difference!
• Prep ingredients ahead: Chopping your veggies and cooking the bacon beforehand can save you time and stress on busy days. Having everything ready to go makes assembly a breeze!
• Mix up the greens: Feel free to use your favorite leafy greens or a mix for added texture and flavor. Kale, spinach, or even arugula can add a delightful twist!
• Customize the toppings: Don’t hesitate to add or swap out toppings based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. This salad is versatile, so get creative!

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

Serving this vibrant salad is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some ideas that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: A side of lemon wedges adds a zesty touch and allows guests to customize their salad with extra acidity.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet bites are easy to prepare and pair beautifully with the savory Cobb salad. Simply toss diced sweet potatoes in olive oil, season with salt, and roast until golden.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts gives them a delightful crunch that complements the creamy avocado in the salad. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting for maximum flavor.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Light and refreshing, zoodles make an excellent low-carb side dish. They can be sautéed lightly in olive oil with garlic for an extra kick.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with quinoa, black beans, and spices for a colorful side that adds fiber and protein without overwhelming the meal.

Enjoy creating this beautiful Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon—it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition! Your family will love it as much as you do!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is perfect for meal prep! It stores wonderfully and can be enjoyed throughout the week, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad components separately to keep them fresh.
• Use airtight containers for optimal storage.
• Keep the honey dijon dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing

• While the salad itself isn’t ideal for freezing, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately.
• Store grilled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using it in your salad.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen the grilled chicken, reheat it gently on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the salad itself; instead, prepare fresh greens each time you’re ready to enjoy your meal.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare each component in advance and store them separately. Just assemble before serving for the freshest taste.

What can I substitute for bacon in the Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?

If you prefer a meat-free option, consider using crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for that added crunch without bacon!

How long does the honey dijon dressing last?

The honey dijon dressing can be stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before using!

Can I add other vegetables to my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?

Yes! Feel free to customize your salad by adding bell peppers, radishes, or any favorite veggies you have on hand.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This salad is perfect for meal prep; just store components separately and combine when ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon as much as I do! It’s packed with flavors and nutrients, making it not only a filling meal but also a healthy option that everyone will enjoy. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!