Name: Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breast fillets; 1 tsp olive oil; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp garlic; 2 tsp dried oregano; pinch salt; cracked pepper; ¼ cup Bacon; 2 hard boiled eggs; 6 cups Romaine lettuce leaves; 1 cup grape tomatoes; 1 avocado; ½ cup parmesan cheese; ½ cup croutons; For Caesar Dressing:; ¼ cup whole egg mayonnaise; ¼ cup non fat Greek yogurt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 garlic clove; 4 anchovy fillets; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp parmesan cheese; salt and pepper

This grilled chicken caesar cobb salad is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect option for a hearty and healthy meal. With grilled chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a zesty caesar dressing, this salad offers a refreshing twist on the classic cobb salad.

Photos of Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are commonly found in your kitchen, a few might require a trip to the supermarket. Make sure to pick up anchovy fillets, which are essential for an authentic caesar dressing. Also, non fat greek yogurt might not be a regular item in your fridge but adds a nice creamy texture to the dressing without the extra fat.

Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad

Chicken breast fillets: The main protein for the salad, grilled to perfection.

Olive oil: Used for grilling the chicken and in the caesar dressing.

Lemon juice: Adds a zesty flavor to both the chicken and the dressing.

Garlic: Provides a robust flavor to the marinade and dressing.

Dried oregano: Adds an earthy flavor to the chicken marinade.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Cracked pepper: Adds a bit of heat and flavor to the chicken.

Bacon: Adds a crispy, savory element to the salad.

Hard boiled eggs: Adds a creamy texture and additional protein.

Romaine lettuce leaves: The base of the salad, providing a fresh crunch.

Grape tomatoes: Adds sweetness and color to the salad.

Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the salad and dressing.

Croutons: Adds a crunchy texture to the salad.

Whole egg mayonnaise: The base of the caesar dressing.

Non fat greek yogurt: Adds creaminess to the dressing without the extra fat.

Anchovy fillets: Essential for an authentic caesar dressing.

Salt and pepper: To taste, for the dressing.

One reader, Corrina Gainey says:

This grilled chicken caesar cobb salad recipe is fantastic! The flavors blend perfectly, and the homemade dressing is a game-changer. It's a hearty, delicious meal that's easy to prepare. Highly recommend!

Corrina Gainey

Techniques Required for Making a Delicious Cobb Salad

How to grill chicken: Season the chicken with oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat a non-stick grill pan with a small amount of olive oil. Grill the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through.

How to make Caesar dressing: Mix together mayonnaise, yogurt, oil, garlic, anchovies, lemon juice, and parmesan. Whisk until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste, then whisk again.

How to hard boil eggs: Place eggs in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 9-12 minutes. Remove from heat, drain, and cool in ice water before peeling.

How to chop bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces.

How to slice avocado: Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and slice the flesh into thin pieces.

How to assemble salad: Combine lettuce with avocado, tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and croutons in a large bowl. Top with sliced chicken, bacon, and eggs. Pour over the dressing, top with more croutons, then mix well to combine.

How To Make Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad

Grab a healthy bite of this cobb salad topped with perfectly tender grilled chicken! It comes with a creamy Caesar Dressing to give you the best meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2large chicken breast filletsskinless
1tspolive oil
2tbsplemon juice
1tspgarlicminced
2tspdried oregano
pinchsalt
cracked pepper
¼cupbacondiced, cooked
2hard boiled eggs
6cupsRomaine lettuce leaveswashed and dried
1cupgrape tomatoeshalved
1avocadosliced
½cupparmesan cheeseshaved
½cupcroutons

For Caesar Dressing:

¼cupwhole egg mayonnaisereduced fat
¼cupnon fat Greek yogurtor sour cream – full fat or reduced fat
1tbspolive oil
1garlic clovecrushed
4anchovy filletsfinely chopped, adjust to taste
1tbsplemon juice
2tbspparmesan cheesefreshly grated
Salt and pepperfor seasoning

Instructions

Season the chicken with the oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt and pepper.
Heat a non stick grill pan with a small amount of olive oil.
Grill the chicken until golden on both sides and cooked through.
Remove the chicken, cover, then set aside to rest.

Caesar Dressing:

Mix together the mayonnaise, yogurt, oil, garlic, anchovies, lemon juice and parmesan.
Whisk until well combined.
Add salt and pepper to taste, then whisk again. Set aside.

To Assemble:

Slice the chicken into thick slices.
Chop up the bacon, then slice the eggs.
In a large bowl, combine lettuce with the avocado, tomatoes, parmesan cheese and croutons.
Top with the chicken, bacon, and eggs.
Pour over the dressing; top with more croutons, then mix well to combine.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 624.86kcal
Fat: 45.11g
Saturated Fat: 11.90g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.26g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.40g
Carbohydrates: 15.87g
Fiber: 6.42g
Sugar: 3.74g
Protein: 40.55g
Cholesterol: 174.62mg
Sodium: 893.95mg
Calcium: 385.17mg
Potassium: 928.28mg
Iron: 3.16mg
Vitamin A: 435.76µg
Vitamin C: 18.73mg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Grilled Chicken

For perfectly grilled chicken, make sure to preheat your grill pan thoroughly before adding the chicken. This ensures a nice sear and helps lock in the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken breast.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad Recipe

Marinate in advance: Season the chicken the night before to let the flavors meld and save time on prep day.

Pre-cook bacon: Cook and chop the bacon ahead of time, storing it in the fridge until needed.

Use pre-washed lettuce: Opt for pre-washed romaine lettuce to cut down on washing and drying time.

Boil eggs early: Hard boil the eggs in advance and keep them refrigerated until you're ready to assemble the salad.

Ready-made croutons: Use store-bought croutons to eliminate the need for baking your own.

Blender for dressing: Use a blender to quickly mix the Caesar dressing ingredients for a smooth and fast result.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe

Chicken breast fillets - Substitute with turkey breast fillets: Turkey breast has a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken, making it a suitable alternative for grilling.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good substitute for olive oil in grilling.
Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidic tang and can be used in the same quantity as lemon juice.
Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.
Dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy flavor and can be used in the same quantity as oregano.
Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.
Cracked pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and can be used in smaller quantities for a spicy kick.
Bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture.
Hard boiled eggs - Substitute with tofu: Firm tofu can be cubed and used as a protein-rich alternative, especially for those avoiding eggs.
Romaine lettuce leaves - Substitute with kale: Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green that can provide a similar crunch and texture.
Grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes have a similar size and sweetness, making them an easy swap.
Avocado - Substitute with hummus: Hummus can provide a creamy texture and healthy fats, similar to avocado.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar hard texture and salty flavor, making it a good alternative.
Croutons - Substitute with toasted nuts: Toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Whole egg mayonnaise - Substitute with vegan mayonnaise: Vegan mayonnaise can provide a similar creamy texture and flavor without the use of eggs.
Non fat greek yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt offers a dairy-free alternative with a similar creamy consistency.
Olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for dressings.
Garlic clove - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor in a more convenient form.
Anchovy fillets - Substitute with capers: Capers can add a briny, salty flavor similar to anchovies without the fishiness.
Lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a similar acidity and tanginess.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good option for those avoiding dairy.
Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness with a slightly different mineral profile.
Pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor but with a different color, which can be useful for aesthetic purposes.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Cobb Salad

Use a large, white plate: The clean, white background will make the vibrant colors of the grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes, and avocado pop, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Slice the chicken elegantly: Arrange the thick slices of grilled chicken in a fan shape on one side of the plate, showcasing the juicy, perfectly cooked interior.
Create a colorful base: Spread the romaine lettuce leaves evenly across the plate, forming a lush green bed for the other ingredients.
Arrange the toppings artfully: Place the grape tomatoes, avocado slices, bacon, and sliced eggs in small, distinct piles around the plate, ensuring each ingredient is easily identifiable and accessible.
Drizzle the dressing with precision: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the Caesar dressing in a zigzag pattern over the lettuce and toppings, adding a touch of elegance and ensuring even distribution.
Add a touch of crunch: Sprinkle the croutons and extra parmesan cheese over the top, providing a delightful contrast in texture.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh oregano or parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness, elevating the overall presentation.
Serve with style: Place the plate on a polished wooden board or a sleek serving tray, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the dish.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Cobb Salad Ingredients

To store leftover grilled chicken caesar cobb salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
It's best to store the dressing separately from the salad to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy. Keep the dressing in a separate airtight container in the fridge.
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, you can store the individual components separately in the refrigerator:
- Store the grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Keep the chopped bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and parmesan cheese in separate containers or resealable bags.
- Wash and chop the romaine lettuce, then store it in a sealed bag with a slightly damp paper towel to maintain its crispness.
- Cut the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
To freeze the grilled chicken for later use, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to use the frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before adding it to the salad.
It's not recommended to freeze the entire assembled salad, as the lettuce and other ingredients will lose their texture and quality upon thawing.
If you have leftover caesar dressing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad

The best way to reheat leftover grilled chicken caesar cobb salad is to separate the components and reheat them individually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of each ingredient.
Remove the chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado from the salad and set them aside. These ingredients can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Place the romaine lettuce, grape tomatoes, parmesan cheese, and croutons in a large bowl. If the lettuce seems wilted, you can refresh it by soaking it in cold water for a few minutes, then draining and patting it dry with a paper towel.
If you prefer your chicken warm, you can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry and tough. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces to ensure even heating.
To reheat the bacon, place it on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels and microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until crispy.
For the caesar dressing, give it a good stir before drizzling it over the salad. If it has thickened up in the refrigerator, you can thin it out with a little bit of water or lemon juice.
Once all the components are ready, assemble the salad by placing the lettuce mixture in a bowl and topping it with the chicken, bacon, eggs, and avocado. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to combine.
If you find that the croutons have become soggy, you can crisp them up by placing them on a baking sheet and heating them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they are crispy again.
Alternatively, if you don't mind the salad being slightly wilted, you can reheat the entire dish in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This method works best if you have stored the salad in a microwave-safe container.

Interesting Trivia About the Origins of Cobb Salad

A fun fact about this grilled chicken caesar cobb salad recipe is that it combines elements of both Caesar salad and Cobb salad, two classic American dishes. The Caesar salad originated in Tijuana, Mexico, while the Cobb salad was created at the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood.

Is Making Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled chicken caesar cobb salad recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken breast, romaine lettuce, bacon, and eggs are generally affordable and widely available. The homemade caesar dressing adds a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $20-$25.

Is This Cobb Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

This grilled chicken Caesar Cobb salad recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, it includes:

Lean protein from the chicken breast
Nutrient-dense vegetables like romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado
Hard-boiled eggs, which provide additional protein and healthy fats
Greek yogurt in the dressing, which offers a lower-fat alternative to traditional Caesar dressing

However, there are also some less healthy components:

Bacon, which is high in saturated fat and sodium
Mayonnaise in the dressing, adding more saturated fat
Croutons, which are often made from refined grains and can be high in sodium
Parmesan cheese, while providing calcium and protein, is also high in saturated fat and sodium

To make this salad healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with a leaner alternative, such as turkey bacon
Use a smaller amount of mayonnaise in the dressing or replace it entirely with Greek yogurt
Opt for whole-grain croutons or replace them with a healthier crunchy element, like toasted nuts or seeds
Use a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese or choose a lower-fat cheese alternative
Add more colorful vegetables to the salad, such as shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, or red onions, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious salad that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Additionally, you could experiment with different dressings, such as a light vinaigrette or a yogurt-based herb dressing, to further reduce the fat and sodium content while adding variety to your meals.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Cobb Salad Creation

This grilled chicken Caesar Cobb salad recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The seasoned chicken, combined with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and tangy Caesar dressing, creates a harmonious balance. The use of Greek yogurt in the dressing adds a healthy twist without compromising on taste. The inclusion of anchovies in the dressing provides an authentic Caesar flavor. Overall, this recipe is well-rounded and perfect for a satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy texture of mashed potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side dish will complement the grilled chicken perfectly, adding a comforting touch to your meal.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance with tender asparagus spears, grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. The citrusy brightness will enhance the flavors of your salad.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a velvety butternut squash soup, seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This comforting bowl of goodness will provide a delightful contrast to the crisp salad.

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa: For a nutty and slightly sweet addition, try a quinoa salad mixed with dried cranberries and walnuts. The chewy texture and burst of flavor will add an exciting dimension to your meal.

Mango Sorbet: Finish your meal on a refreshing note with a scoop of mango sorbet. The tropical sweetness will cleanse your palate and leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try If You Love Cobb Salad

Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad: Grilled Shrimp Caesar Salad is a delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad. Swap out the chicken for succulent, marinated shrimp grilled to perfection. Combine with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy grape tomatoes, creamy avocado, and crunchy croutons. Drizzle with a tangy Caesar dressing and top with shaved parmesan cheese for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Steakhouse Cobb Salad: Steakhouse Cobb Salad brings the hearty flavors of a steakhouse to your salad bowl. Featuring tender, grilled steak slices, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a medley of fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Finish with a sprinkle of blue cheese crumbles and a drizzle of your favorite dressing for a robust and flavorful dish.

Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Mediterranean Chicken Salad is a vibrant and healthy option packed with Mediterranean flavors. Marinated chicken breast is grilled and served atop a bed of mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Toss with a zesty lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Southwest Chicken Salad: Southwest Chicken Salad is a bold and zesty salad that brings the flavors of the Southwest to your table. Grilled chicken is paired with romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Top with tortilla strips and a creamy cilantro lime dressing for a deliciously spicy and satisfying meal.

Buffalo Chicken Salad: Buffalo Chicken Salad is perfect for those who love a bit of heat. Crispy buffalo chicken tenders are served over a bed of romaine lettuce, celery, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles. Drizzle with a cooling ranch dressing to balance the spicy kick for a flavorful and exciting salad.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Cobb Salad

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful start to any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and parmesan, creating a crispy, golden crust when baked. These bite-sized treats are perfect for whetting the appetite and setting the stage for the main course. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures, along with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, makes this appetizer a crowd-pleaser. Serve them hot, straight from the oven, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The freshness of the tomatoes combined with the aromatic basil and the tangy sweetness of the balsamic creates a perfect harmony of flavors. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with its bright colors and rustic presentation. It's an ideal way to kick off a meal, especially when paired with a glass of chilled white wine.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate cake with a gooey center that oozes out as you cut into it. This decadent treat is perfect for any chocolate lover. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, and garnish with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar. The contrast between the warm, molten center and the cold ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. For an extra touch, drizzle some raspberry coulis over the top.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Picture a zesty lemon filling nestled in a buttery pie crust, topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue. This classic dessert is a perfect balance of tart and sweet. The meringue is lightly toasted to a golden brown, adding a slight crunch to each bite. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. For a twist, add a layer of blueberry compote between the lemon filling and the meringue, giving it an extra burst of flavor and color.

Why trust this Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe:

This grilled chicken caesar cobb salad recipe is a must-try for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The chicken is marinated with lemon juice and oregano, ensuring a zesty and aromatic taste. The homemade caesar dressing combines mayonnaise, greek yogurt, and anchovies for a rich and creamy finish. Fresh ingredients like romaine lettuce, avocado, and grape tomatoes add a refreshing crunch. This recipe is meticulously crafted to deliver a delightful and satisfying meal.

Want to share your own twist on this Grilled Chicken Caesar Cobb Salad Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of the forum and let us know how you make it your own!

FAQ:

How long should I grill the chicken?

I usually grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it's golden and cooked through. You can check if it's done by cutting into the thickest part to see if the juices run clear.

Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing instead of making my own?

Absolutely, you can use store-bought Caesar dressing if you're short on time or prefer it. Just make sure to choose a good quality one for the best flavor.

What can I use as a substitute for anchovies in the dressing?

If you're not a fan of anchovies, you can leave them out or substitute with a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. It adds a similar umami flavor without the fishiness.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

To keep the avocado from browning, you can toss the slices in a little lemon juice. The acidity helps slow down the oxidation process.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time, but I recommend assembling the salad and adding the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.