Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a sweet and tangy honey mustard dressing. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures—hearty enough for lunch or dinner, yet light and vibrant. Whether served as a standalone entrée or wrapped in a tortilla, this salad is a delicious and wholesome choice for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is the ultimate combo of healthy and flavorful. The honey mustard dressing doubles as a marinade, infusing the chicken with bold, tangy sweetness. It’s loaded with fresh greens, crunchy toppings, and protein-packed grilled chicken—making it a complete meal. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it’s ideal for meal prep, packed lunches, or weeknight dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Dijon mustard
• Honey
• Apple cider vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, or arugula)
• Cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Cucumber (sliced)
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Avocado (optional)
• Shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers (optional)
• Croutons or sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)

directions

1. Make the Dressing/Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Reserve half for dressing, and use the rest to marinate the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a resealable bag or bowl and pour in half the honey mustard mixture. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
3. Cook the Chicken: Grill or pan-sear the chicken over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let rest, then slice into strips.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or platter, arrange salad greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and any additional toppings. Add the sliced chicken on top.
5. Drizzle and Serve: Pour the reserved honey mustard dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss if desired or serve as-is.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add cheese: Crumbled feta or shredded cheddar adds a creamy element.
• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Make it a wrap: Serve the salad in whole wheat tortillas for a portable lunch.
• Low-carb version: Skip the croutons and add more avocado or nuts.
• Extra crunch: Top with sunflower seeds, crispy bacon, or roasted chickpeas.

storage/reheating

Store salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing in a jar in the fridge and add just before serving. The cooked chicken can be stored and reheated gently in a skillet or microwave. Avoid storing the salad already dressed to maintain freshness and texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought honey mustard dressing?

Yes, but homemade gives you more control over flavor and ingredients.

What’s the best type of mustard to use?

Dijon mustard is ideal for a smooth, tangy flavor, but yellow mustard can work for a milder taste.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep all the components and store separately. Assemble and dress just before serving.

What’s a good side for this salad?

Crusty bread, pita chips, or a light soup complement it well.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Cook the chicken ahead and portion the salad into containers for grab-and-go meals.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until fully cooked.

What greens work best for this salad?

Any combination of romaine, baby spinach, arugula, or mixed spring greens will work.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Add it just before serving, or toss with a little lime or lemon juice to slow oxidation.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs stay juicy and work great in this recipe.

Is the dressing gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially the mustard and vinegar) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a wholesome, vibrant meal that brings together juicy grilled chicken, crisp veggies, and a zesty homemade dressing. It’s simple, satisfying, and versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners or prepping in advance. Once you try this sweet-and-savory favorite, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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