Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
Description
Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a protein-packed, nutrient-dense meal, featuring juicy grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, hard-boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese over a bed of fresh greens. Drizzled with a tangy homemade dressing, this classic salad is satisfying, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled and sliced)
- 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
- 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (peeled and sliced)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles (or feta for a milder flavor)
- ½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
For the Dressing:
- â…“ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Grill the Chicken
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
2. Prepare the Salad Base
- In a large bowl or serving platter, arrange the mixed greens evenly.
3. Add Toppings
- Place grilled chicken slices, bacon, eggs, avocado, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and red onion on top of the greens in separate sections for a classic Cobb Salad look.
4. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Assemble & Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving.
- Toss lightly or serve as-is.
Notes & Tips
- Grill Indoors or Outdoors: If you don’t have a grill, cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil.
- Crispy Bacon Hack: Bake bacon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes for perfectly crispy results.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store ingredients separately in airtight containers and assemble fresh before eating.
- Dressing Swap: Try balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for a twist.
Servings & Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~30g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Sugar: ~3g
(Values vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad
- High-Protein Meal: Grilled chicken and eggs help with muscle repair and keep you full.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil provide monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: Great for those on a low-carb diet.
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Greens and tomatoes provide vitamin C, while eggs offer choline for brain health.
- Good for Digestion: The fiber from avocado and greens supports gut health.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store the dressing separately and slice the avocado fresh before eating to prevent browning.
Q: What can I use instead of blue cheese?
Feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar are great substitutes.
Q: How can I make it vegetarian?
Swap chicken and bacon for chickpeas, tofu, or grilled mushrooms.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep ingredients in separate containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! Ranch, balsamic, or a lemon vinaigrette works well.
This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a delicious, nutritious, and filling meal that’s easy to customize. Want any variations or substitutions? Let me know!