Name: Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing (Paleo)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons raw honey (melted if solid); ¼ cup Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or white vinegar; ¼ cup avocado oil; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1½ pounds); 1 teaspoon sea salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon avocado oil (for grilling); 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce, kale, or a mix of greens; ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, halved; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; 1 medium cucumber, peeled and sliced; 1 large avocado, thinly sliced; 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled; 6 hard-boiled eggs, sliced

Serving Tips:

Make it a Meal: This Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a complete meal in itself, but you can pair it with a side of roasted sweet potatoes, crispy baked fries, or whole-grain rolls for extra heartiness.

Top it Off: For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds or sunflower seeds on top. You can also drizzle extra avocado oil or a bit more honey Dijon dressing for more flavor.

Customize Your Greens: Feel free to swap out the romaine lettuce for your favorite greens like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens to suit your personal taste.

Serve it Chilled: To enhance the freshness of the salad, refrigerate the salad ingredients (except for the dressing) before serving. Serve the dressing on the side or drizzle it just before eating to keep the greens crisp.

Storage Tips:

Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover salad, it’s best to store the ingredients separately to maintain freshness. Store the grilled chicken, bacon, eggs, and veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a separate jar or container to avoid soggy greens.

Reheating Chicken: If you want to reheat the chicken, do so in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook it. A quick heat in a skillet will also work if you prefer a bit of a sear.

Meal Prep Tip: You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in separate containers. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the salad and drizzle with dressing. This is perfect for making lunch or dinner on the go.

Freezing: While this salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients like avocado and lettuce, you can freeze the grilled chicken separately for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding it back to your salad.

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FAQs:

Can I make this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients in advance. Store the grilled chicken, veggies, and hard-boiled eggs in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Keep the dressing in a separate jar to prevent sogginess. Assemble the salad and drizzle with the dressing just before serving for the best freshness.

Can I substitute the honey Dijon dressing with another dressing?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of honey Dijon, you can substitute it with a balsamic vinaigrette, avocado dressing, or a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. The salad is versatile, and any dressing with a tangy flavor will complement the ingredients well.

Is this Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply assemble the salad and drizzle with the dressing. The ingredients will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it a great option for a healthy lunch throughout the week.

Can I make this salad without bacon or substitute it with something else?

Yes, if you prefer a bacon-free version, you can omit it or replace it with other ingredients like grilled chicken thighs, roasted chickpeas, or toasted nuts for crunch. The salad will still be delicious and satisfying without the bacon.