This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy greens, and a sweetly tangy honey mustard dressing. It’s fresh, light, and perfect for lunch!
Whipping this up is super easy, which is great because I always want more time for dessert! 😂 Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a yummy meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for a faster option, use pre-cooked grilled chicken strips. Alternatively, you can substitute with turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Lettuce: Romaine provides a nice crunch, but you can use mixed greens or spinach instead. Each type offers a unique taste and nutrient profile.
Avocado: I love the creaminess avocados add to the salad. If you don’t have one, you could use diced cucumber for a similar texture or a handful of nuts for crunch.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and tasty, but canned or frozen works just as well. If you want a twist, try using black beans for added protein!
Honey Mustard Dressing: While store-bought is super convenient, making your own is easy! Mix honey, Dijon mustard, and a bit of olive oil for a fresh taste. If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, consider ginger or tahini dressing instead.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly for Salads?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can get it just right. Here’s how to ensure it’s juicy and flavorful:
- Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Lightly coat the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking and keep it tender.
- Season with salt and pepper for flavor. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees it’s cooked through, not dry.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist when you cut it.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped (Romaine or mixed greens)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking the chicken
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook the chicken. So, you’ll be enjoying a tasty meal in about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats, coat the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil and season them with some salt and pepper. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken on it and grill or cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to cook all the way through until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). When it’s done, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
While the chicken is cooking, grab a large salad bowl. Add the chopped lettuce, diced avocado, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled bacon. This is where all the colorful ingredients come together for a fresh and crunchy salad!
3. Combine and Serve:
Once the chicken has rested and been sliced, lay it on top of your salad. Now, drizzle the honey mustard dressing over everything. This dressing adds a nice sweet and tangy flavor to your salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together to combine them well. And just like that, your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is ready!
4. Enjoy!
Serve your salad immediately and enjoy the delicious mix of flavors and textures. It’s a perfect meal for a warm day or whenever you want something fresh!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The safest way is to defrost it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, seal the chicken in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier or vegetarian alternative, you can use crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds for crunch. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika to the dressing or using smoked tempeh instead of bacon.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the freshness and crispness of the salad ingredients!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance but wait to combine them with the dressing until just before serving. This will keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the fridge!
