The Salad That Actually Feels Like a Meal

Let’s be honest — not all salads are created equal. Some leave you hungry an hour later, picking at snacks in the pantry. But this Chicken Cobb Salad? It’s different. It’s dinner.

Loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and a rainbow of fresh toppings, this salad checks all the boxes: protein-packed, flavorful, and totally satisfying. It’s one of those dinners that feels light, but keeps you full (and happy) for hours.

I started making this when I was trying to clean things up in my 30s, but still craved comfort food. Now, it’s a regular in our dinner rotation — especially in the warmer months when I want something fresh that doesn’t require heating up the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cooked chicken breasts or thighs, sliced (grilled or rotisserie works great)

• 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spring mix, or spinach)

• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and halved

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (or feta if you prefer)

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the dressing (or use your favorite):

• 1/3 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon, garlic, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prep your ingredients: Cook and slice the chicken, boil the eggs, and prep the toppings.

3. Assemble the salad: Arrange greens on a large platter or in individual bowls. Neatly line up the chicken, bacon, eggs, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, and red onion over the top.

4. Drizzle & serve: Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving, or serve it on the side so everyone can dress their own.

Sarah’s Tips

• Meal prep shortcut: Cook chicken, bacon, and eggs ahead of time so assembling this takes just a few minutes.

• Low dairy option: Skip the cheese or swap it for a dairy-free version — still delicious and filling.

• Pack it to-go: Layer in a mason jar (dressing on the bottom, lettuce on top) for a portable lunch that won’t get soggy.

Flavorful Conclusion

This Chicken Cobb Salad is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: easy to throw together, packed with protein, and so satisfying you won’t even think about what’s for dessert. Whether you're cleaning up your eating or just want a fresh, colorful plate — this one hits the spot every single time.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 4):
Calories: 460
Protein: 38g
Carbs: 9g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g