Grilled Chicken with Honey Dressing

This vibrant honey mustard chicken salad brings together juicy grilled chicken, fresh berries, and crunchy elements all topped with a tangy-sweet homemade dressing. It's become my go-to meal for those summer evenings when I want something light yet completely satisfying that doesn't require turning on the oven.

I first created this recipe when hosting an outdoor gathering where I needed something impressive yet straightforward. The colorful presentation and flavor combinations had everyone asking for the recipe before they even finished their plates.

Ingredients

• Greek yogurt: Creates a creamy base for the dressing while adding protein and probiotics. Look for whole milk varieties for the richest texture.
• Dijon mustard: Provides sophisticated sharpness that elevates the dressing. Choose a high quality brand for best flavor.
• Honey: Balances the tangy elements with natural sweetness. Local honey works beautifully here.
• Soy sauce: In the marinade adds umami depth that helps the chicken develop beautiful caramelization when grilled.
• Gorgonzola cheese: Introduces bold creaminess that contrasts with the sweet elements. Select a moderately aged variety that crumbles easily.
• Blueberries: Add juicy pops of sweetness and antioxidants. Choose plump, firm berries without soft spots.
• Slivered almonds: Contribute essential crunch and healthy fats. Toast them lightly before adding for enhanced flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dressing:

Combine Greek yogurt, both mustards, honey, lemon zest, salt and pepper in a wide-mouth mason jar. Shake vigorously until smooth and completely blended. The consistency should coat the back of a spoon. Refrigerate immediately to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the remaining components.

Marinate the Chicken:

Whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt and pepper in a bowl until well combined. Pour this flavorful mixture over your chicken breasts in a shallow container or ziplock bag, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though longer marinating up to 4 hours will intensify the flavor.

Grill to Perfection:

Preheat your grill to medium heat around 400°F. Place marinated chicken directly over heat and grill for 4 to 5 minutes per side until beautiful grill marks form. Then move to indirect heat and continue cooking for 5 to 7 additional minutes. This two-zone cooking method ensures juicy chicken with fantastic flavor. Verify doneness with a meat thermometer reading 160°F at the thickest part.

Rest and Slice:

Allow the grilled chicken to rest uncovered for at least 5 minutes. This crucial step lets juices redistribute throughout the meat while the temperature continues rising to the safe 165°F. Slice into bite-sized pieces against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Assemble Your Masterpiece:

Distribute crisp romaine lettuce among four bowls as your foundation. Arrange the sliced chicken, crumbled bacon, slivered almonds, fresh blueberries, tangy gorgonzola and chewy dried cranberries in sections over the greens. This presentation allows diners to appreciate each component before drizzling with the honey mustard dressing.

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The blueberries are my secret favorite ingredient in this salad. They burst with juicy sweetness that perfectly contrasts the savory chicken and tangy dressing. My family initially questioned the combination but now deliberately hunt for berries in each bite.

Make-Ahead Options

This salad is extraordinarily flexible for busy schedules. The dressing stays fresh for up to five days when refrigerated in an airtight container. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor development. For ultimate convenience, grill extra chicken during weekend meal prep, then assemble fresh salads throughout the week in just minutes.

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Customization Ideas

The basic formula of this salad welcomes endless variations based on seasonal availability or dietary preferences. Swap blueberries for strawberries or peaches in summer. Replace gorgonzola with feta for a milder flavor profile. For a nut-free version, substitute pepitas or sunflower seeds for the almonds. The honey mustard dressing works beautifully with any of these variations.

Serving Suggestions

This salad shines as a complete meal by itself, but also pairs wonderfully with a crusty artisan bread for a more substantial dinner. For entertaining, present it on a large platter with components arranged in sections for a stunning visual effect that allows guests to build their own perfect combination. A chilled rosé or crisp sauvignon blanc makes an excellent beverage pairing.

Health Benefits

Beyond simply tasting amazing, this salad delivers impressive nutritional benefits. The combination of protein from chicken and Greek yogurt supports muscle maintenance, while berries provide antioxidants. The healthy fats from almonds and olive oil promote satiety and nutrient absorption. Even the honey mustard dressing brings prebiotic benefits from the raw honey when you choose that variety.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this honey mustard chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components ahead of time. Marinate and grill the chicken, prepare the dressing, and chop ingredients up to 2 days before. Store everything separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent wilting.

→ What can I substitute for gorgonzola cheese?

If you don't enjoy gorgonzola's strong flavor, you can substitute with milder blue cheese, feta, or goat cheese. For a non-blue option, try shredded white cheddar or monterey jack. For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese entirely or use a plant-based alternative.

→ How can I make this honey mustard chicken salad dairy-free?

Make this dish dairy-free by using plain unsweetened dairy-free yogurt (like coconut, almond or cashew yogurt) in the dressing instead of Greek yogurt. Omit the gorgonzola cheese or replace with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken if you're short on time. Rotisserie chicken works well - simply shred or dice it. While you'll miss the flavor from the marinade, you can still enjoy a delicious salad. For added flavor, warm the chicken slightly and toss with a bit of the honey mustard dressing before adding to the salad.

→ What can I use instead of blueberries if they're not in season?

When blueberries aren't in season, try strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or sliced grapes. Diced apples or pears also work well, especially in fall. Mandarin oranges or peaches are excellent summer alternatives. The goal is having something sweet to balance the savory elements.

→ How long does the honey mustard dressing last in the refrigerator?

The homemade honey mustard dressing will keep well in an airtight container (like a mason jar) in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Give it a good shake or stir before using as separation may occur. If the dressing thickens too much during storage, thin it with a little lemon juice or water.