Cobb Salad With Grilled Chicken Recipe

You’ll love this classic Cobb salad with grilled chicken, a protein-packed dish that combines crisp romaine lettuce with rows of colorful ingredients for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. To make it, you’ll need grilled chicken, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, blue cheese, and red onion. The dressing is a simple mix of red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Arrange the ingredients in neat rows on a bed of chopped romaine for an eye-catching presentation. This iconic American salad, created in the 1930s at Hollywood’s Brown Derby, is perfect for lunch or dinner. Discover how to elevate your Cobb salad game with expert tips and variations.

Ingredients and Preparation

Classic Cobb Salad with Grilled Chicken

This iconic American salad, created in the 1930s at the Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant, is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. With its colorful rows of ingredients atop crisp romaine lettuce, the Cobb salad is not only visually appealing but also a satisfying meal. The addition of grilled chicken elevates this classic, making it a protein-packed dish perfect for lunch or dinner. The combination of creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, and smoky bacon creates a symphony of tastes that has made this salad a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 grilled chicken breasts, diced
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup blue cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Set aside to rest, then dice.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Arrange chopped romaine lettuce on a large serving platter or individual plates.
5. Create rows of diced chicken, chopped eggs, crumbled bacon, diced avocado, halved tomatoes, crumbled blue cheese, and diced red onion on top of the lettuce.
6. Sprinkle chopped chives over the salad for garnish.
7. Serve the dressing on the side or drizzle it over the salad just before serving.

Top Tips

1. Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent them from turning mushy in the salad.
2. Cook the bacon until crisp for the best texture and flavor.
3. Chill the ingredients before assembling for a refreshing salad.
4. For a time-saving option, use rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own.
5. Make extra dressing and store it in the refrigerator for future use.
6. To prevent browning, toss avocado pieces in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad.

Variations

1. Mediterranean Cobb: Replace blue cheese with feta and add olives and cucumbers.
2. Vegetarian Cobb: Substitute grilled tofu or tempeh for the chicken and use plant-based bacon.
3. Seafood Cobb: Use grilled shrimp or salmon instead of chicken.
4. Southwest Cobb: Add black beans, corn, and replace blue cheese with pepper jack.
5. Asian-inspired Cobb: Use grilled teriyaki chicken and add mandarin oranges and sliced almonds.
6. Keto Cobb: Increase the protein and healthy fats, reduce tomatoes, and use a creamy avocado-based dressing.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	4
Calories	650
Fat	48g
Carbohydrates	18g
Protein	42g

This Cobb salad is rich in protein from the chicken, eggs, and bacon, making it a filling meal. The avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the vegetables offer various vitamins and minerals. To reduce the calorie content, you can use less bacon and cheese or opt for a lighter dressing. The salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb diet. For a more balanced meal, consider serving with a small portion of whole grain bread or adding some quinoa to the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the History Behind Cobb Salad?

You’ll find Cobb salad’s origin at the Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant in 1937. Its ingredients evolved from leftovers, becoming a classic chopped salad. Popular modifications now include grilled chicken, while maintaining the signature components you’ve come to love.

Can I Make Cobb Salad Vegetarian or Vegan?

You can easily make a vegetarian or vegan Cobb salad. Use plant-based options like tempeh or marinated tofu as meat alternatives. Replace eggs with chickpeas and choose vegan cheese. You’ll enjoy a delicious, protein-rich salad that’s entirely plant-based.

How Long Does Cobb Salad Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?

You’ll maximize your Cobb salad’s shelf life with proper storage. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Typically, it’ll stay fresh for 3-5 days. For best quality, consume within 2 days of preparation. We recommend enjoying it sooner!

What Are Some Creative Variations of the Classic Cobb Salad?

You’ll love these creative Cobb salad variations. Try flavorful add-ins like roasted chickpeas, grilled peaches, or smoked salmon. Experiment with unique dressings such as avocado-lime, honey-mustard, or blue cheese-balsamic for a delightful twist on the classic.

Is Cobb Salad Suitable for a Keto or Low-Carb Diet?

You’ll find Cobb salad suitable for keto and low-carb diets. Its nutritional benefits align well with these regimens. For recipe modifications, you can omit croutons and reduce or eliminate corn to further lower carb content. You’re on track!

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the art of crafting a classic Cobb salad with grilled chicken. By following these precise techniques, you’ve created a balanced combination of flavors and textures. The careful arrangement of ingredients showcases your attention to detail. This salad isn’t just nutritionally dense; it’s a visually appealing dish that demonstrates your culinary skills. You’ll find this recipe versatile enough to adapt for various occasions, from casual lunches to more formal dining experiences.