This Easy Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is fresh and packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, crispy greens, and a sweet honey mustard dressing make it a winner for lunch or dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts for a quick cook, but thighs are also great for extra juiciness. If you’re veg, try grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein!
Lettuce: Romaine is crisp and refreshing, but feel free to mix in other greens like spinach or kale, which adds a different texture and flavor.
Strawberries: They bring sweetness! Try other berries like blueberries or even peaches for a seasonal twist. Frozen fruits work too if fresh isn’t available.
Avocado: Adds creaminess, but you can skip it or replace it with sliced cucumbers if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
Bacon: For a healthier option, turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas can add that savory crunch without the extra fat.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken is all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to make sure your chicken stays juicy and flavorful:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan; a hot surface gives nice grill marks.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook without moving the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. This allows for a good sear!
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps the juices inside, making each bite tender.
Easy Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- For the Salad:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or cooked and cut from 1 ear of corn)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for dressing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook the chicken, plus a few extra minutes to assemble the salad. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can enjoy in just about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into strips.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the whole grain mustard, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of olive oil until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste it and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Now, grab some large salad bowls and arrange the chopped romaine lettuce as the base. Start topping the lettuce with slices of grilled chicken, fresh strawberries, avocado slices, corn kernels, and the chopped bacon. Once everything is beautifully arranged, drizzle the honey mustard dressing generously over the top.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
You can either toss the salad gently to mix everything together or serve with the dressing on the side for everyone to enjoy. Dig in right away to savor this delicious and colorful honey mustard chicken salad!
This salad is not only easy to make but also combines smoky grilled chicken, crunchy bacon, and sweet strawberries with a tangy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Just chop it up and proceed with the salad assembly—no need to grill!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Corn?
No problem! You can use canned corn or frozen corn that has been thawed. Just drain or cook the corn according to package instructions, and you’re good to go!
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
Can I Make the Dressing Ahead of Time?
Definitely! The honey mustard dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as it might separate while sitting.
