A Cobb salad is a classic American chopped salad made with a variety of fresh ingredients, including grilled chicken, crispy bacon, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s typically served with a tangy vinaigrette or honey mustard dressing, giving it a delicious balance of flavors.

This hearty salad was first created at the Brown Derby Restaurant in Hollywood in the 1930s. Since then, it has become a popular menu item at restaurants and a favorite salad recipe for home cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Cobb Salad with Honey Dijon

• Full of flavor: Every bite is packed with creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and tangy honey Dijon dressing.
• Hearty and satisfying: This isn’t just any salad—it’s a protein-packed meal with grilled chicken, eggs, and bacon.
• Easy to customize: Whether you prefer air-fried chicken, extra veggies, or a different salad dressing, you can make this Cobb salad recipe your own.

Ingredients for the Best Cobb Salad

For the Salad

• Romaine lettuce – Crisp and refreshing.
• Grilled chicken breast – Adds protein and flavor.
• Crispy bacon – A must-have for crunch and saltiness.
• Avocado – For creaminess and healthy fats.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet.
• Hard-boiled eggs – Adds richness and texture.
• Blue cheese – Optional, but it adds a bold, tangy kick.
• Cucumber – Adds a refreshing crunch.

For the Honey Dijon Dressing

• Dijon mustard – The key ingredient for a tangy kick.
• Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Olive oil – Helps create a smooth, well-balanced dressing.
• Apple cider vinegar – Brings out the flavors.
• Salt and pepper – Enhances all the ingredients.

How to Cook the Chicken Perfectly

The key to a delicious chicken Cobb salad is juicy, flavorful chicken. Here’s how to do it:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, and black pepper. Marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
2. Grill or air fry: Heat a grill or air fryer to medium-high. Grill the chicken for about 6 minutes per side, or air fry your chicken at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Let it rest and slice: Rest the cooked chicken for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Making the Honey Dijon Dressing

This honey mustard dressing is the star of the salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.

1. Whisk together: In a bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
2. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Adjust consistency: If you like a thicker dressing, add more Dijon mustard; for a thinner dressing, add a splash of red wine vinaigrette.

Assembling the Ultimate Cobb Salad

Now it’s time to assemble the salad:

1. Prepare the salad base: In a large serving bowl, add romaine lettuce and salad greens.
2. Add the toppings: Arrange grilled chicken, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, hard-boiled eggs, and creamy avocado in rows.
3. Drizzle with dressing: Pour the honey Dijon dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.

Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Prefer air-fried chicken? It gives it the perfect crisp while keeping it juicy inside.
• Make ahead by preparing the salad ingredients in advance and storing them separately.

Variations and Substitutions

• Paleo option: Omit the cheese and use a gluten-free dressing.
• Dairy-free: Skip the blue cheese and add extra avocado.
• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken and bacon for grilled tofu or chickpeas.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Refrigerator or overnight: Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Dressing storage: Keep honey mustard dressing in a small bowl in the fridge for up to a week.

Common Questions About Cobb Salad

Can I use a different dressing?

Yes! Try a red wine vinaigrette or a classic Cobb salad dressing.

How do I keep the salad fresh?

Store the ingredients separately and assemble the salad just before serving.

What’s the best way to cook the bacon?

Cover the pan and cook over medium heat until crispy bacon forms.

Key Takeaways

✅ A chicken Cobb salad is hearty, delicious, and easy to make.
✅ Marinate the chicken for the best flavor and grill or air fry your chicken for a perfect texture.
✅ A homemade honey Dijon dressing adds the perfect tangy-sweet balance.
✅ Customize your Cobb salad recipe with different toppings and salad dressings.

Try this grilled chicken Cobb salad with honey Dijon, and enjoy a salad that’s full of flavor—your whole family will love it! 🥗✨