There is something incredibly satisfying about a well-made Cobb salad, and this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe takes it to a whole new level with juicy, perfectly grilled chicken breasts bringing smoky richness to every bite. Bursting with fresh mixed greens, creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, crispy bacon, and vibrant tomatoes, it’s a colorful, harmonious dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Whether you’re craving a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad makes an unforgettable meal that’s as delicious to eat as it is beautiful to look at.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward building the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your salad. Each item plays a vital role—from the tender grilled chicken to the creamy avocado and crisp bacon, every component adds its own magic to the mix.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that grills up tender and juicy, perfect for a hearty salad.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle fruity flavor when grilling.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and seasons the chicken perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, aromatic spice that complements the chicken and salad.
- 4 cups mixed greens: Provides a fresh, crisp base full of vibrant color and nutrients.
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced: Bring juicy sweetness and a splash of red brightness to the dish.
- 1 avocado, diced: Creamy texture and healthy fats that elevate the salad’s richness.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced: Adds protein and a mild, comforting flavor.
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled: Provides a punch of tangy, bold flavor that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled: Offers irresistible smokiness and crunch.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Sharpness and a bit of bite to balance the creamier elements.
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar: Adds brightness and acidity to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Lends a touch of sharpness and depth to the dressing.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: Creates a smooth, rich dressing base.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances the dressing with a touch of gentle sweetness.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is key to getting those beautiful grill marks and locking in the juices. Brush your chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper for perfect seasoning.
Step 2: Grill Chicken to Perfection
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which means the chicken is juicy and safe to eat without drying out.
Step 3: Let the Chicken Rest
After grilling, remove the chicken and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This simple step lets the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful when you slice it.
Step 4: Prep the Salad Ingredients
While the chicken rests, get your salad ready by washing and drying the mixed greens, then adding diced tomatoes and avocado for vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Peel and slice your hard-boiled eggs to add a satisfying creaminess.
Step 5: Add Cheese, Bacon, and Onion
Sprinkle in crumbled blue cheese for a tangy kick, toss in crispy bacon crumbles for crunch, and scatter thinly sliced red onion for a sharp contrast that complements the other ingredients wonderfully.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
Whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and honey until silky and emulsified. This dressing brings all the flavors together with a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness.
Step 7: Assemble the Salad
Slice your grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure every bite is dressed just right.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe: Enjoy!
Serve your masterpiece immediately to enjoy the freshness and vibrant flavors at their peak.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your salad with additional fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives to add a burst of color and fresh flavor that enhances the dish’s appeal.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with a warm crusty bread or some garlic toast to complement the textures without overpowering the fresh, bold flavors of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the salad ingredients in neat rows instead of mixing, showcasing the colorful layers of greens, tomatoes, bacon, eggs, and blue cheese, then drizzle the dressing on top right before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe components separate if possible—store grilled chicken and salad ingredients in airtight containers and keep the dressing refrigerated in its own jar to maintain freshness.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended due to the delicate textures of the greens and creamy avocado which can become mushy upon thawing.
Reheating
If you have leftover grilled chicken, reheat it gently in a warm oven or microwave, but keep the salad itself cool and fresh for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I substitute the grilled chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! While grilled chicken is classic in this recipe, you can use grilled turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
What kind of greens work best in this salad?
Mixed greens are ideal because they offer a variety of textures and flavors, but you can also use romaine lettuce or baby spinach if you prefer a milder taste and crunch.
Is blue cheese necessary, or can I use another cheese?
Blue cheese gives this salad its characteristic tang and richness, but feel free to swap it for feta or goat cheese if you want a milder, creamier option that still pairs beautifully.
How do I make this salad gluten-free?
This salad is naturally gluten-free as long as your bacon and mustard don’t contain any gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure and enjoy safely!
Can I prepare this salad in advance for a party?
You can prep most of the ingredients the day before, but it’s best to keep the chicken separate and add dressing just before serving to avoid sogginess and keep everything fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe, it will likely become your go-to whenever you want something delicious, satisfying, and fresh all at once. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic salad with grilled chicken that feels special but is incredibly simple to make. So fire up your grill, gather the ingredients, and get ready to dig into one of the most colorful, flavorful salads you’ll ever eat!
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Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad featuring juicy grilled chicken breasts, fresh mixed greens, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, hard-boiled eggs, crisp bacon, tangy blue cheese, and a zesty homemade red wine vinaigrette. Perfectly balanced with savory and fresh flavors, this salad makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Salad
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking the chicken breasts evenly.
- Prepare Chicken: Brush the chicken breasts with one tablespoon of olive oil on both sides to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with one teaspoon of salt and one teaspoon of black pepper to taste.
- Grill Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) indicating they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Prepare Salad Base: While the chicken rests, wash and dry the mixed greens and place them in a large salad bowl.
- Add Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes and avocado and add them to the bowl with the mixed greens for fresh texture and flavor.
- Add Eggs: Peel and slice the hard-boiled eggs, then add the slices to the salad for added protein and creaminess.
- Add Cheese: Crumble the blue cheese over the salad to provide a tangy and savory element.
- Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then crumble and add them to the salad for a crunchy, smoky bite.
- Add Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add it to the salad bowl, providing a sharp contrast in flavor.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and honey until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.
- Slice Chicken: Slice the rested grilled chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and add them to the salad bowl.
- Toss Salad: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad and gently toss all ingredients together to distribute flavors evenly.
- Serve: Serve the salad immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors at their best.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Bacon can be cooked in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning or dressing.
- Use fresh mixed greens such as romaine, arugula, and spinach for best texture and flavor.
- If blue cheese is not preferred, feta or goat cheese can be a good substitute.
