Pin it
A perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors featuring grilled honey mustard chicken, fresh fruits, and crispy bacon atop crisp romaine. Ideal for warm weather dining and special occasions.
Key Components
- Marinated chicken
- Honey mustard dressing
- Fresh produce
- Crispy bacon
- Seasonal fruits
- Creamy avocado
Essential Ingredients
For the Dressing/Marinade: Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, green onions, white vinegar, seasonings.
For the Salad: Chicken thighs, Romaine lettuce, fresh strawberries, corn kernels, avocado, bacon strips.
Pin it
Perfect Preparation
- Marinade Steps:
- Whisk ingredients. Reserve portion. Marinate chicken. Chill remaining dressing. Turn occasionally
- Cooking Guide:
- Preheat grill/pan. Cook chicken through. Crisp bacon separately. Rest meat properly. Check temperature
- Assembly Order:
- Layer greens. Add protein. Arrange produce. Include bacon. Dress lightly
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer fruits
- Grilled vegetables
- Fresh herbs
- Light proteins
- Crisp greens
Remember: Success depends on proper marination time and careful grilling technique for juicy, flavorful results.
Serving & Customization Guide
Alternative Toppings: Fresh Spring: Mandarin oranges, sugar snap peas, radishes, cucumber, fresh herbs. Summer Bounty: Grilled peaches, cherry tomatoes, fresh berries, grilled corn, fresh basil.
Protein Variations
Grilled Options: Chicken breast, shrimp, salmon, tofu steaks, turkey tenderloin.
Quick Substitutes: Rotisserie chicken, canned tuna, hard boiled eggs, chickpeas, deli turkey.
Pin it
Dressing Adaptations
Lighter Version: Greek yogurt base, less honey, more mustard, lemon juice, herbs.
Richer Version: Mayo base, extra honey, whole grain mustard, garlic addition, more seasonings.
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep dressing early
- Cook bacon ahead
- Wash produce
- Store components separately
- Assemble just before serving
Perfect For: Summer entertaining, light dinners, meal prep, picnics, lunch meetings.
This versatile salad can be adapted for any season while maintaining its signature honey mustard flavor profile. The key is using fresh ingredients and proper timing in assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly as they tend to cook faster than thighs and can dry out more easily.
- → How long can I store the honey mustard dressing?
- The dressing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
- You can marinate the chicken and prepare the dressing ahead of time, but assemble the salad just before serving to keep ingredients fresh.
- → What can I substitute for strawberries when they're not in season?
- You can use other fresh fruits like mandarin oranges, apples, or pears as alternatives to strawberries.
- → Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop instead of grilling?
- Yes, you can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.