Go Back
Cobb salad is a classic American dish with a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. Legend has it that this delectable salad was created by Bob Cobb, the owner of the Brown Derby restaurant in Hollywood, California. It was a late-night invention that combined a variety of fresh ingredients, resulting in a colorful and hearty meal that quickly gained popularity among diners. The original Cobb salad features a delightful mix of ingredients, including crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, ripe avocados, and blue cheese, all meticulously arranged on a bed of greens. Over the years, its reputation has solidified, making it a staple in American cuisine.

Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors and rich history of Cobb salad with this grilled chicken version, perfect for any meal. Originating from Hollywood in the 1930s, this colorful salad combines crispy bacon, fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and tangy blue cheese. Ideal for meal prep or gatherings, it’s nutritious and can easily be customized to fit your tastes. Learn how to marinate and grill chicken to enhance this classic dish, making it a delicious centerpiece for your dining table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

6 cups mixed salad greens (a blend of romaine, arugula, and baby spinach)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (choose fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 ripe avocado, diced

4 slices crispy bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 cup crumbled blue cheese

¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced

½ cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.

    Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Once hot, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

      Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken is resting, take a large mixing bowl and combine the mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, diced avocado, and chopped bacon. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

        Assemble the Salad: On a large serving platter or in individual bowls, spread out the salad base mixture. Layer the sliced grilled chicken strips on top, and finish with a generous sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese and sliced green onions for added flavor and color.

          Dress the Salad: Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the assembled salad. If preferred, you can toss the salad lightly to coat all the ingredients in the dressing, or serve with the dressing on the side for guests to customize their servings.

            Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad immediately, savoring the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures of this delightful dish!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: Consider garnishing the salad with additional bacon crumbles and cherry tomatoes arranged artfully on top for a visually appealing touch. A few sprigs of fresh herbs can also enhance the presentation.