Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a hearty, wholesome meal packed with protein and vibrant produce. Combining grilled chicken, crisp greens, creamy avocado, and smoky bacon, this salad is finished with a tangy-sweet honey Dijon dressing. It offers all the satisfaction of a traditional Cobb salad, but with paleo-friendly ingredients that keep it clean and nutrient-dense.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a complete meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, offering a well-balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. The grilled chicken adds a smoky depth, while the honey Dijon dressing gives it a zesty finish. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and can be easily adapted for strict paleo by swapping the honey for maple syrup and omitting dairy-based toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 4 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• 8 cups mixed greens (e.g., romaine, arugula, baby spinach)

• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered

• 1 large avocado, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon

• ¼ cup dairy-free blue cheese, crumbled (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for grilling

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for strict paleo)

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Grill the Chicken:
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6–7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.

2. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed greens, hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled bacon.

3. Prepare the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

4. Combine and Serve:
   Add the sliced grilled chicken to the salad. Drizzle with the honey Dijon dressing and toss gently to combine.
   Top with crumbled dairy-free blue cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 14 minutes

• Total Time: 34 minutes

• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Strict Paleo: Use maple syrup instead of honey and omit the dairy-free blue cheese.

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the salad or dressing.

• Roasted Veggies: Add grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for extra depth.

• Different Protein: Substitute grilled steak, turkey, or shrimp for the chicken.

• No Grill Option: Pan-sear the chicken breasts on the stovetop if a grill isn’t available.

Storage/reheating

Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a sealed jar and shake before using. For best texture, slice the avocado and add the dressing just before serving. Reheat the chicken briefly in a skillet or microwave if desired, but do not reheat the assembled salad.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep all components in advance and store them separately. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

Is the dressing paleo-friendly?

Yes, the dressing is paleo when using compliant ingredients like pure honey or maple syrup and apple cider vinegar.

Can I use a different leafy green mix?

Absolutely. Any blend of romaine, arugula, spinach, or kale works well in this salad.

What’s a good substitute for bacon?

For a non-pork option, use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free blue cheese or omit cheese altogether for a fully dairy-free and paleo version.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What kind of mustard is best?

Dijon mustard is ideal for the dressing due to its smooth, tangy flavor. Avoid yellow mustard for this recipe.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Certainly. Grilled or roasted chicken leftovers work well and save time.

How long will the dressing keep?

The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in a sealed jar or container.

Conclusion

Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings together nutrient-dense ingredients in a simple, elegant way. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, offering both variety and balance. With its fresh vegetables, grilled protein, and tangy honey Dijon dressing, this salad is an excellent choice for anyone following a paleo lifestyle or simply looking for a wholesome meal.