7 Steps to Perfect Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon – Ready in 30 Minutes

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Looking for the perfect Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon combination that’s both satisfying and delicious? This Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon creation is a protein-packed meal that delivers restaurant-quality taste in your own kitchen. With juicy chicken breast, crispy bacon, and all the classic Cobb ingredients, this recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep and will quickly become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon Combination

• Protein-packed – With chicken, bacon, and eggs, this salad will keep you full for hours!
• Perfectly balanced – Every bite offers a delightful combination of crisp, creamy, and savory elements.
• Meal-prep friendly – Prepare components ahead of time for quick assembly throughout the week.
• Customizable – Easily adapt with your favorite ingredients while maintaining the classic Cobb structure.
• Restaurant-quality – Impress family and friends with this beautiful, professionally-arranged salad.
• Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients for Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon

For the Salad Base:

• 8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (or a mix of greens)
• 2 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 8 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup red onion, finely diced (or green onions)
• ½ cup blue cheese crumbles (Roquefort is traditional)

For the Classic Vinaigrette:

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat

How to Make Your Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Eggs

1. Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water.
2. Bring to a boil, then cover and remove from heat.
3. Let eggs sit for 10-12 minutes for perfectly hard-boiled eggs.
4. Transfer to an ice bath to cool, then peel and quarter.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Arrange bacon strips in a single layer in a cold skillet.
2. Cook over medium heat until crispy, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then crumble when cooled.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
2. Cook using your preferred method – grilled, baked, or pan-seared until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Allow to rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

1. Combine all dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Shake vigorously until well combined and slightly thickened.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. Arrange chopped romaine lettuce on a large platter or in a wide bowl.
2. Create neat rows of each topping: chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, and blue cheese.
3. Drizzle with dressing just before serving or serve dressing on the side.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cobb Salad

• Prep ingredients ahead: Cook chicken, bacon, and eggs up to 3 days in advance for quick assembly.
• The secret to the best Cobb salad is using high-quality, thick-cut bacon and perfectly cooking each component.
• For extra flavorful chicken, toss the cooked, diced chicken with a little salt, pepper, and a splash of the dressing before arranging on the salad.
• Keep avocados fresh by squeezing a little lemon juice over them after cutting.
• For a perfect presentation, use a large, flat platter to create the signature Cobb salad rows.
• Can I make Cobb salad ahead of time? Yes, but store components separately and add avocado and dressing just before serving.

Best Ways to Serve Cobb Salad

• Serve as a complete meal with a side of crusty bread or cheesy biscuits.
• For a family-style meal, place the salad in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• If serving to kids, consider arranging components separately on their plates rather than mixed together.
• For entertaining, serve in individual bowls pre-arranged for a stunning presentation.
• Pair with a light soup like tomato or asparagus for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Nutritional Information for Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon

• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fat: 30g (mostly healthy fats from avocado)
• Fiber: 6g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage & Leftovers

• How long does Cobb salad last in the fridge? Undressed and without avocado, components will last 2-3 days.
• Store components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• For meal prep: Prepare all ingredients except avocado and store in compartmentalized containers.
• Add avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent browning and wilting.
• Leftover dressing will keep for up to one week in the refrigerator.

FAQs for Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon

Can I freeze Cobb salad?

While you can’t freeze the assembled salad, you can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

What can I use instead of blue cheese in Cobb salad?

If you don’t enjoy blue cheese, substitute with feta, goat cheese, or shredded cheddar for a milder flavor that still complements the other ingredients.

Is Cobb salad healthy?

Yes! Cobb salad is packed with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. To make it even healthier, use grilled chicken, reduce the bacon, and opt for a lighter dressing.

What’s the difference between Cobb salad and Chef salad?

Cobb salad features chicken, bacon, blue cheese, and avocado, while Chef salad typically contains ham, turkey, cheddar cheese, and different vegetables like carrots and cucumbers.

Related Recipes

• Mediterranean Chicken Salad – Another protein-packed salad with Greek-inspired flavors.
• Chicken Caesar Salad – A classic favorite with homemade dressing and croutons.
• Southwest Chicken Salad – Zesty flavors with a Mexican twist.
• Grilled Chicken Avocado Salad – Light and fresh for summer meals.
• Buffalo Chicken Salad – For those who like a spicy kick to their greens.

Conclusion

Now you know how to make the perfect Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon combination at home! This classic American salad has stood the test of time for good reason – it’s delicious, satisfying, and beautiful to look at. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping for lunches, or serving guests, this Cobb Salad Recipe Chicken Bacon creation is guaranteed to impress.

What’s your favorite way to personalize your Cobb salad? Leave a comment below and share your variations!

Originally published: May 5, 2025 | Updated: May 5, 2025

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