Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is not only incredibly delicious but also customizable. The grilled chicken brings a smoky depth of flavor, while the creamy avocado and crispy beef add satisfying textures. The homemade Honey Dijon Dressing ties everything together with its perfect balance of sweetness and tang. It’s a wholesome, paleo-friendly option that can be made in just under 35 minutes!

Ingredients

• 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 beef

• 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

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked. Let them rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.

3. In a large bowl, toss the mixed greens, hard-boiled eggs, avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled beef.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the Honey Dijon Dressing until smooth and creamy.

5. Add the grilled chicken slices to the salad and drizzle with the dressing. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, topped with crumbled dairy-free blue cheese, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 14 minutes

• Total Time: 34 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and beef and add extra veggies or plant-based protein sources like grilled tofu or tempeh.

• Grilled Shrimp: Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.

• Vegan: Omit the honey and use maple syrup in the dressing, and skip the beef and dairy-free blue cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad will last longer if the dressing is stored separately. For reheating, avoid microwaving the salad directly, as the ingredients like avocado and tomatoes will not hold up well to heat. Simply reheat the chicken and beef if needed.

FAQs

How long can I store the salad in the fridge?

It can be stored for up to 2 days, but it’s best to consume it sooner for optimal freshness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salad ingredients and store them separately. Add the dressing and grilled chicken just before serving.

Can I use regular cheese in this recipe?

Yes, if you're not following a strict paleo diet, you can use regular blue cheese instead of dairy-free blue cheese.

What can I use instead of apple cider vinegar in the dressing?

You can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop if you don’t have an outdoor grill.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free when made according to the recipe.

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, you can swap the Honey Dijon Dressing for any paleo-friendly or homemade dressing you prefer.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad can be made ahead for meal prep, but make sure to store the dressing separately to avoid wilting the greens.

How can I make the salad spicier?

You can add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad for a spicy kick.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken can be used to save time.

Conclusion

This Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a vibrant, filling, and healthy dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. With fresh, wholesome ingredients and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite for anyone looking for a nutritious, paleo-friendly meal. Whether you're prepping for the week or serving it fresh, it's the perfect way to enjoy a delicious salad packed with flavor.

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