Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

Some recipes are more than just meals—they’re a memory. This Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad takes me back to summer barbecues and winter brunches, all in one bowl. It’s the kind of salad that satisfies your hunger while keeping you light on your feet, blending bold flavors with fresh ingredients.

Perfect for both summer lunches and winter dinners, this salad is not just healthy; it’s a celebration of classic American cuisine, reimagined for those who follow a paleo lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

• High in protein from grilled chicken, eggs, and bacon
• Nutrient-dense with leafy greens, avocado, and tomatoes
• Easy to customize for the season or your preferences
• Naturally gluten- and dairy-free for a strict paleo option

This salad isn’t just a dish—it’s a flexible meal that works year-round. Add it to your summer cookout lineup or serve it warm with roasted veggies in the winter.

Ingredients for Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

For the Salad (Serves 4):

• 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 cups mixed greens (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, crumbled bacon (ensure it’s sugar-free for strict paleo)
• ¼ cup dairy-free blue cheese (optional)
• Olive oil for grilling
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Honey Dijon Dressing:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a stricter paleo version)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Grill for 6–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Tip: If you’re cooking in colder weather, use a grill pan or roast the chicken in the oven for 20–25 minutes at 400°F (205°C).

2. Make the Dressing

While the chicken rests, whisk together the dressing ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk until creamy and emulsified. Taste and adjust to your liking—more honey for sweetness, more vinegar for tang.

3. Build Your Salad

In a large serving bowl or platter, start with the bed of mixed greens. Arrange the toppings in rows or sections:

• Hard-boiled egg quarters
• Avocado slices
• Cherry tomato halves
• Thinly sliced red onion
• Crumbled bacon
• Sliced grilled chicken
• Optional: dairy-free blue cheese crumbles

4. Dress and Serve

Drizzle the Honey Dijon Dressing over the salad just before serving. Gently toss or serve as-is for a beautiful presentation.

Seasonal Variations

For Summer:

• Add grilled peaches or berries for a fruity note
• Use light greens like baby spinach or arugula

For Winter:

• Substitute cherry tomatoes with roasted butternut squash or beets
• Try warm, sautéed kale as your green base

This recipe shines year-round with just a few small tweaks.

Customization Tips

• Add crunch with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts
• Spice it up with sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing
• Swap proteins with turkey breast, grilled shrimp, or even steak

Meal Prep and Storage

This salad can be prepped in advance:

• Store components separately to avoid sogginess
• Dressing keeps in the fridge for up to a week
• Grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months

Final Thoughts

This Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad is a favorite for its taste, nutrition, and versatility. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a brunch, or just craving a colorful plate, this dish fits the bill.

Try it once, and it will likely become a regular in your kitchen.

Share Your Salad

Did you try this Paleo Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad? Tag your masterpiece with #MyPaleoSalad and share your unique twist. We love seeing your creations.