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, dinner, or meal prep. With juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh veggies, and a quick honey dijon dressing ready in no time, it’s an excellent choice for various occasions. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and vibrant colors while sticking to your dietary goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time, you can have this salad ready in under half an hour.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of honey dijon dressing and seasoned grilled chicken brings a delicious taste to every bite.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Low in carbs and packed with protein, this salad is a great option for those following paleo or Whole30 diets.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for lunch boxes or family dinners, it satisfies both adults and kids alike!
• Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out greens or add other veggies based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this scrumptious salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that irresistible grilled flavor on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the ingredients for the honey dijon dressing.
• Whisk: Helps to easily blend the dressing ingredients together until smooth.
• Knife & cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and slicing chicken efficiently.

Ingredients

For this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon {Paleo, Whole30 Option}, gather these fresh ingredients:

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 med cucumber (peeled and sliced)
• 1 large avocado (thinly sliced)
• 8 slices turkey bacon (cooked until crisp, chopped)
• 6 hard boiled eggs (sliced)

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

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Melted honey.
2. Dijon mustard.
3. Lemon juice or vinegar.
4. Avocado oil.
5. Sea salt until well combined.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix:
1. Sea salt.
2. Black pepper.
3. Garlic powder.
4. Onion powder.

Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add:
– Avocado oil to coat the surface.

Place seasoned chicken breasts on the grill:
– Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through.
– Remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl:
– Add chopped greens as a base.
– Top with cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, cucumber, avocado slices, turkey bacon pieces, and hard-boiled egg slices.
– Drizzle generously with honey dijon dressing.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Toss gently to combine all ingredients before serving. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon as a wholesome meal!

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

Serving a Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is all about presentation and pairing it with the right elements. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious salad that your family and friends will love.

For a Light Lunch

• Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a casual lunch setting. This allows everyone to enjoy their own portion.
• Wrap It Up: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad ingredients for a fun, handheld option.

As a Dinner Entrée

• Plate It Up: Present on large dinner plates, garnished with extra cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.
• Serve Warm: Slightly warm the chicken before placing it atop the salad for a comforting touch.

For Meal Prep

• Mason Jar Salads: Layer the ingredients in mason jars, starting with the dressing at the bottom and greens on top. Shake before serving.
• Bento Boxes: Pack salad components separately in bento boxes for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.

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

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning: Make sure to season your chicken well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder before grilling for maximum flavor.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and ripe avocados for the best taste and texture in your salad.
• Chill Before Serving: If possible, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
• Mix It Up: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or radishes for additional crunch and nutrients.

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 that complement this hearty salad.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Serve warm roasted sweet potatoes as a healthy and filling side.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds extra protein and fiber while being gluten-free.
3. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon enhances both flavor and nutrition.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes a refreshing low-carb noodle option that pairs well with salads.
5. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal grilled veggies brings smoky flavors that complement the grilled chicken nicely.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness and balances out the savory components of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using Overcooked Chicken: Ensure your chicken is grilled just right. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning your chicken. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder enhances flavor. Marinating can also make a big difference!
• Not Preparing Ingredients Ahead: To save time, prep your vegetables and other ingredients before cooking the chicken. This makes assembly quick and easy.
• Ignoring Dressing Proportions: Balance the honey and Dijon mustard in your dressing. Adjust according to taste; too much honey can make it overly sweet, while too much mustard might be too tangy.
• Using Stale Greens: Always use fresh greens for the best texture and flavor. Check for wilting or browning before adding them to your salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for best freshness.

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

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the fresh ingredients.
• If you need to freeze, consider only freezing grilled chicken separately.
• Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator before reheating.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet until warmed through (about 15 minutes).
• Microwave: Heat chicken for 1-2 minutes on high; check periodically so it doesn’t overheat.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon.

Can I use different proteins in this salad?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey or beef for the grilled chicken if desired.

How can I customize my Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon?

Feel free to add additional toppings like nuts, seeds, or different veggies according to your preference!

What if I don’t have honey?

You can replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness in the dressing.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad is great for meal prep; just store components separately until ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. You can easily modify it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Enjoy making this healthy meal that satisfies both taste buds and dietary needs!

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

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Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon, featuring juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is not only packed with nutrients but also offers a satisfying crunch and colorful presentation. With its delightful combination of ingredients like crispy turkey bacon and creamy avocado, it’s a wholesome option that delights both kids and adults alike. Easy to customize with your favorite greens and veggies, this salad is a must-try for anyone seeking delicious and healthy meal options.

• Author: Camila
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups chopped romaine or other greens
• 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
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 Tbsp avocado oil (for grilling)
• 1/2 red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 med cucumber (peeled and sliced)
• 6 hard boiled eggs (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.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Grill chicken over medium-high heat with a bit of avocado oil for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
4. Assemble the salad in a large bowl with greens as the base. Top with sliced chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado slices, turkey bacon pieces, and hard-boiled eggs.
5. Drizzle generously with honey dijon dressing and toss gently to combine before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of the salad (approximately 250g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 180mg