The Cobb salad is a classic for a reason—filled with layers of flavors and textures, it’s a meal that satisfies and delights. This Keto Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing takes all the beloved elements of a traditional Cobb salad and makes it keto-friendly. The result? A rich, savory, and ultra-satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Packed with juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and tangy blue cheese, this low-carb version keeps you full and energized without the carbs.
With a homemade blue cheese dressing that’s both creamy and tangy, this salad is ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet, or anyone who just loves a hearty, flavorful salad. It’s not only easy to make, but also easy to customize. Add or swap ingredients to suit your taste, or even try one of the flavor variations below. Each bite of this keto Cobb salad is an explosion of textures and tastes that’s sure to keep you coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Low-Carb and High-Protein: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this keto-friendly Cobb salad is a satisfying meal that fits into a low-carb lifestyle.
- Full of Flavor: Blue cheese dressing, avocado, bacon, and grilled chicken bring a range of flavors that complement each other perfectly.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead for busy days or divide it into portions for easy, grab-and-go lunches.
- Customizable: Add your favorite keto ingredients or swap out different proteins, cheeses, or veggies for endless variations.
- Perfect Balance: With protein, healthy fats, and fiber, it’s a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied without the carbs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like romaine, baby spinach, or arugula)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved or chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (or feta for a milder option)
For the Blue Cheese Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
How to Make Keto Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or sauté the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Blue Cheese Dressing
While the chicken cooks, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled blue cheese, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little water or milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Boil the Eggs
In a separate skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces. For the eggs, place them in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for 9-10 minutes. Cool, peel, and slice the eggs in half or chop them for easy salad assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the salad greens as the base. Top with rows or sections of grilled chicken, bacon crumbles, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles. This layout not only looks beautiful but also ensures you get a taste of every ingredient in each bite!
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle the blue cheese dressing generously over the salad. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, savory, and satisfying bite of this keto-friendly Cobb salad!
Helpful Tips
- Choose Your Cheese: While blue cheese adds a classic, tangy kick to the salad, feel free to substitute it with feta or goat cheese if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Get the Perfect Egg Texture: For perfectly hard-boiled eggs, place them in cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for exactly 9 minutes before transferring to an ice bath. This helps you achieve a firm yolk without overcooking.
- Meal Prep Option: If making this salad ahead, store the dressing separately to prevent the salad from getting soggy. Assemble the salad just before eating.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, sprinkle a few sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sliced almonds on top. They add a delightful crunch while keeping the salad keto-friendly.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Mixing
- Cuisine: American, Keto-Friendly
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 3g
Fat: 35g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of grilled chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a quick and convenient option, especially if you’re short on time. Simply shred or dice the chicken and add it to the salad.
What are some good substitutes for blue cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta, goat cheese, or even sharp cheddar are delicious options that complement the other flavors in the salad.
Can I make the blue cheese dressing in advance?
Yes, the dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before using.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad is excellent for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before eating to keep the salad fresh.
What can I add to make it more filling?
You can add extra avocado or another hard-boiled egg for added healthy fats and protein. A handful of nuts or seeds can also add more texture and staying power without adding carbs.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad can keep for up to 2 days, though avocado may start to brown. The dressing can be stored for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, re-toss the salad ingredients and add the dressing to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
Flavor Variations
- Southwest Cobb Salad: Add a sprinkle of chili powder to the chicken marinade, swap the blue cheese for pepper jack, and add a spoonful of salsa or a few jalapeño slices for a spicy, Southwestern twist.
- Mediterranean Cobb Salad: Swap blue cheese for feta, and add olives, cucumber, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette instead of blue cheese dressing.
- BBQ Chicken Cobb Salad: Toss the chicken with a sugar-free BBQ sauce before grilling, and replace the blue cheese dressing with a light ranch dressing for a smoky, savory spin.
Related Recipes
If you’re a fan of low-carb, keto-friendly salads, you might enjoy these other hearty options:
Conclusion
With its rich, bold flavors and satisfying textures, this Keto Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing is the ultimate low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. It’s perfect for those who love a hearty salad that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Every bite offers a balance of creamy, savory, and tangy elements that make this a meal you’ll want to enjoy again and again. So grab your ingredients, whip up this easy Cobb salad, and savor every delicious bite!
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Keto Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing
Description
The Cobb salad is a classic for a reason—filled with layers of flavors and textures, it’s a meal that satisfies and delights. This Keto Chicken Cobb Salad with Blue Cheese Dressing takes all the beloved elements of a traditional Cobb salad and makes it keto-friendly. The result? A rich, savory, and ultra-satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Packed with juicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado, crisp bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and tangy blue cheese, this low-carb version keeps you full and energized without the carbs.
With a homemade blue cheese dressing that’s both creamy and tangy, this salad is ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet, or anyone who just loves a hearty, flavorful salad. It’s not only easy to make, but also easy to customize. Add or swap ingredients to suit your taste, or even try one of the flavor variations below. Each bite of this keto Cobb salad is an explosion of textures and tastes that’s sure to keep you coming back for more!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (like romaine, baby spinach, or arugula)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved or chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (or feta for a milder option)
For the Blue Cheese Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or sauté the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips or bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Blue Cheese Dressing
While the chicken cooks, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled blue cheese, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a little water or milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired thickness.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon and Boil the Eggs
In a separate skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble it into small pieces. For the eggs, place them in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for 9-10 minutes. Cool, peel, and slice the eggs in half or chop them for easy salad assembly.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl or on a serving platter, arrange the salad greens as the base. Top with rows or sections of grilled chicken, bacon crumbles, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and blue cheese crumbles. This layout not only looks beautiful but also ensures you get a taste of every ingredient in each bite!
Step 5: Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle the blue cheese dressing generously over the salad. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, savory, and satisfying bite of this keto-friendly Cobb salad!