Cobb Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Craving Chick-fil-A’s famous Cobb Salad but want to make it at home? This copycat recipe brings the same bold flavors, crisp textures, and creamy dressing to your kitchen. It’s fresh, easy, and perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you love it grilled or fried, this version lets you customize every bite. Ready to skip the drive-thru and recreate your favorite salad? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Cobb Salad Chick Fil A Recipe Copycat

There’s a lot to love about this homemade Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad. Here’s why it stands out:

Tastes Just Like the Original

This copycat recipe captures the signature flavors of Chick-fil-A’s Cobb Salad—crispy or grilled chicken, creamy avocado lime ranch dressing, smoky bacon, and sharp cheese—all in one bowl.

Fresh and Customizable

Making it at home means you’re in control. You can use organic greens, high-quality meats, and your favorite toppings. Skip or swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs.

More Affordable

Why pay restaurant prices when you can make multiple servings at home for less? This version is budget-friendly and great for meal prep.

Healthier Ingredients

Avoid preservatives and control sodium and fat by preparing it yourself. Choose grilled chicken for a lighter option or use homemade dressing for a cleaner taste.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad works great as a full meal, a party platter, or a meal-prep lunch. It’s satisfying, colorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

What’s in Chick-fil-A’s Cobb Salad?

Chick-fil-A’s Cobb Salad is more than just a bowl of greens—it’s a hearty, flavorful mix of fresh and savory ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll typically find in the original salad:

Chicken (Grilled or Fried)

• Grilled Nuggets: Tender, juicy, and lightly seasoned. A lighter option.
• Fried Nuggets or Spicy Filet: Crispy, golden, and flavorful. Adds crunch and richness.

You can choose either based on your preference. Chick-fil-A usually offers customization when ordering.

Mixed Greens

A fresh blend of Romaine lettuce, baby greens, and sometimes green cabbage for crunch and texture.

Shredded Cheese

A mix of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese brings creaminess and a slight sharpness to every bite.

Crispy Bacon

Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy dressing.

Roasted Corn

Adds a sweet, slightly charred flavor and some bright color to the mix.

Grape Tomatoes

Juicy and fresh, these little tomatoes offer a tangy pop with every bite.

Sliced Hard-Boiled Eggs

A classic Cobb salad ingredient that adds richness and protein.

Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing

Chick-fil-A’s signature dressing—creamy, zesty, and full of flavor. It ties the whole salad together.

Ingredients and Possible Substitutions

To make a perfect copycat Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad at home, you’ll need three main sets of ingredients: for the chicken, for the salad base, and for the avocado lime ranch dressing. Below is the full list with suggested substitutions to fit various dietary preferences or pantry availability.

For the Chicken

Option 1: Grilled Chicken Breast (healthier)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Option 2: Crispy Chicken (authentic flavor)

• Chicken breasts or tenders
• Buttermilk (for marinating)
• All-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
• Seasonings (paprika, cayenne, salt, pepper)
• Oil for frying

Substitutions:

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
• Air-fried nuggets for a lighter crunch
• Plant-based nuggets for a vegetarian option

For the Salad Base

• 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 2 cups spring mix or baby greens
• ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grape tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup roasted corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and sautéed)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
• 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled

Substitutions:

• Swap kale or spinach for greens
• Use turkey bacon or omit for a healthier version
• Try feta or blue cheese for different flavor profiles
• Canned corn can be used if roasted corn isn’t available

For the Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing (Homemade)

• 1 ripe avocado
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions:

• Use store-bought avocado ranch if short on time
• Swap buttermilk with almond milk + vinegar (for dairy-free)
• Use sour cream instead of mayo for a tangier taste

Equipment You’ll Need

Making this Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad copycat at home is simple and doesn’t require fancy tools. However, having the right kitchen equipment can help speed up the process and ensure great results. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cutting Board and Sharp Knife

For chopping lettuce, slicing tomatoes, eggs, and cooked chicken. A sharp chef’s knife will give clean cuts and help maintain the look of your salad.

Salad Spinner (Optional but Helpful)

Wash and dry your greens thoroughly to avoid soggy salad. A spinner makes this fast and efficient.

Mixing Bowls

You’ll need a few bowls for marinating the chicken, mixing the dressing, and tossing salad components. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best.

Grill Pan or Skillet

For cooking chicken—use a grill pan for nice sear marks or a regular skillet for easy stovetop grilling. If frying chicken, you’ll need a deep skillet or Dutch oven and oil-safe thermometer.

Tongs or Spatula

Useful for flipping chicken while cooking without tearing it.

Small Blender or Food Processor

To make the avocado lime ranch dressing smooth and creamy. A handheld immersion blender can also work.

Measuring Cups and Spoons

Essential for accurately measuring seasoning, dressing ingredients, and more.

Serving Bowls or Meal Prep Containers

Choose a large salad bowl to assemble everything beautifully. If meal-prepping, portion into airtight containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

How to Make Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad at Home

Recreating Chick-fil-A’s Cobb Salad at home is simple with just a few steps. You’ll prepare the chicken, mix the dressing, prep the salad toppings, and then assemble everything into one delicious, hearty bowl.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

For Grilled Chicken:

• Marinate: Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Grill: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).
• Slice: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.

For Crispy Chicken (Optional):

• Marinate: Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
• Coat: Dredge in a seasoned flour mixture (paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder).
• Fry: Heat oil to 350°F and fry until golden and crispy, about 4–6 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Avocado Lime Ranch Dressing

• Blend: In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), buttermilk, lime juice, garlic powder, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper.
• Adjust: Blend until smooth. Add water or more lime juice to thin if needed.
• Chill: Refrigerate until ready to serve. This enhances the flavor.

Step 3: Prep the Salad Toppings

• Boil Eggs: Place eggs in boiling water for 9–10 minutes. Cool, peel, and slice.
• Cook Bacon: Fry or bake until crispy, then crumble.
• Roast Corn: Sauté fresh or thawed corn in a pan with a bit of oil for 5 minutes until lightly browned.
• Slice Tomatoes: Halve grape tomatoes for bite-size pieces.
• Shred Cheese: Use freshly grated Monterey Jack and cheddar for better melt and taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

• Base Layer: In a large bowl or plate, add romaine and spring mix.
• Top with Toppings: Arrange sliced chicken, halved tomatoes, roasted corn, sliced eggs, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese on top.
• Drizzle Dressing: Add a generous drizzle of the avocado lime ranch dressing or serve it on the side.

Step 5: Serve

Toss gently if serving immediately, or keep components separated for meal prep. Add extra dressing or spicy elements like jalapeños for a bold twist.

Tips for the Best Copycat Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad

To make your homemade Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad truly irresistible, here are some expert tips and tricks that ensure perfect texture, flavor, and presentation every time.

Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients

Opt for crisp greens, ripe avocados, and freshly grated cheese. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor and make the salad taste just as good—or better—than the restaurant version.

Season Everything Separately

Don’t rely solely on the dressing for flavor. Lightly season the chicken, corn, and even the salad greens with salt and pepper for depth.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Whether grilled or fried, cook the chicken just until done. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and rubbery. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.

Chill the Dressing Before Serving

Let the avocado lime ranch dressing sit in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and enhances creaminess.

Roast or Sauté the Corn for Extra Flavor

Instead of using plain canned corn, roast it in a pan or oven until slightly charred. This mimics Chick-fil-A’s roasted corn flavor and adds a smoky-sweet depth.

Cook Bacon Until Crispy

Crisp bacon provides crunch and balances the creamy textures of the dressing and avocado. Use paper towels to absorb excess grease after cooking.

Hard-Boil Eggs Perfectly

For creamy yolks and no gray ring, boil eggs for 9–10 minutes, then transfer immediately to an ice bath.

Assemble Just Before Serving

To avoid soggy lettuce or wilted toppings, keep ingredients separate until ready to eat. Great for meal prepping—store components in separate containers.

Slice Ingredients Uniformly

Uniform slices of chicken, eggs, and tomatoes help with even distribution and better presentation.

Want It Spicier?

Use Chick-fil-A’s spicy grilled filet or add a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for an extra kick.

Serving Suggestions

The Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad copycat is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be part of a larger spread or tailored to suit different occasions and preferences. Here are a variety of serving suggestions to make the most of your homemade salad:

Serve as a Main Course

Thanks to the protein-packed chicken, eggs, bacon, and cheese, this salad is filling enough for lunch or dinner. Pair with a cold drink like iced tea or lemonade for that true Chick-fil-A vibe.

Make It a Salad Bar

Hosting guests or feeding picky eaters? Set up a Cobb Salad bar with separate bowls of toppings. Let everyone build their own. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep parties.

Turn It into a Wrap or Sandwich

Wrap the salad in a large tortilla or stuff it in a pita pocket. Use leftover chicken and toppings to make a sandwich with ranch or dressing as a spread.

Add a Side

Serve with homemade waffle fries, sweet potato fries, or a cup of chicken soup for a satisfying combo. A small fruit salad or yogurt parfait makes it feel more like a complete Chick-fil-A meal.

Serve Cold or at Room Temperature

The salad holds up well if kept cold, making it a great option for picnics, packed lunches, or on-the-go meals.

Pair with a Lighter Dressing

If you want a fresher or healthier twist, use a light vinaigrette, Greek yogurt ranch, or lemon herb dressing instead of avocado lime ranch.

Add a Crunchy Topping

Top with croutons, tortilla strips, or crisp chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.

Serve in Meal Prep Containers

Divide into individual containers with dressing on the side. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad copycat is perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or leftovers—but only if stored correctly. Here’s how to keep your salad components fresh, crisp, and ready to enjoy.

Store Ingredients Separately

To maintain freshness and prevent sogginess:

Keep the dressing in a separate container. This avoids wilted greens. Store cooked chicken, bacon, eggs, and corn in individual airtight containers. Chopped greens and vegetables should be stored in a sealed container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.

Refrigeration Guidelines

• Cooked chicken: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Dressing: Homemade avocado lime ranch lasts 3–5 days in the fridge. Keep it in a jar or sealed container.
• Hard-boiled eggs: Store peeled eggs for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
• Chopped vegetables and greens: Best used within 2–3 days for optimal crunch.

Meal Prep Method

For easy grab-and-go salads:

Use meal prep containers with divided sections or mason jars. Layer ingredients with heavier items (chicken, corn, bacon) at the bottom and greens at the top to keep everything crisp. Store the dressing in a small side container and add just before eating.

Avoid Freezing

Do not freeze any part of the salad. The fresh veggies and dressing will lose texture and separate upon thawing.

Quick Assembly Tips

Pre-cook and slice chicken in bulk and refrigerate. Boil several eggs at once for the week. Keep washed and chopped greens in a salad spinner or large container for fast assembly.

Nutrition Breakdown

Knowing the nutritional value of your homemade Chick-fil-A Cobb Salad helps you stay informed and make healthy choices. While the exact numbers may vary based on your ingredients and portion sizes, here’s a general estimate for one serving of the copycat salad.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

(Based on a grilled chicken version with avocado lime ranch dressing)

• Calories: 550–650 kcal
• Protein: 35–40g
• Fat: 35–45g
• Saturated Fat: 8–10g
• Carbohydrates: 18–22g
• Fiber: 6–8g
• Sugar: 4–6g
• Cholesterol: 250–300mg
• Sodium: 900–1100mg

Note: Using crispy chicken or extra dressing will increase calories, fat, and sodium.

Nutrition Highlights

• High in Protein: From grilled chicken, eggs, cheese, and bacon. Keeps you full longer.
• Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Low in Sugar: Naturally low in sugar, especially when you avoid store-bought dressings.
• Good Source of Fiber: Thanks to mixed greens, corn, and tomatoes.

Ways to Lighten It Up

Use grilled chicken instead of crispy. Swap mayo with Greek yogurt in the dressing. Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount slightly. Limit bacon or use turkey bacon for lower saturated fat. Serve dressing on the side to control how much you use.

Dietary Considerations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs for crispy chicken.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Skip corn and use grilled chicken with full-fat dressing.
• Dairy-Free: Omit cheese or use plant-based cheese and swap dressing ingredients.

Cobb Salad Chick Fil A Recipe

Discover the ultimate Cobb Salad Chick-fil-A recipe with fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and easy steps to recreate this fan-favorite salad at home. Perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: lunch, Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz. Just Bare chicken nuggets or chicken of choice
• 8 cups green leaf lettuce chopped or greens of choice
• 1 11-oz. can corn drained
• 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled
• 4 hard-boiled eggs store-bought or see notes for how to hard boil eggs
• 1 cup grape tomatoes
• 1/2 cup thick shredded cheese 56g I used monterey jack and cheddar
• Avocado Lime Dressing optional or you can use store bought or dressing of choice

Method

 

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F.
2. Once preheated, add nuggets and air fry for 8-10 minutes or until crisp.
3. Add 1/4 of everything to four bowls, or store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
4. Serve with avocado lime dressing, or dressing of choice, and enjoy!